2004 Smart Roadster 0.7L Petrol · RV04 HBU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history indicates a worsening trend regarding structural and mechanical integrity. While it passed the most recent test in May 2026 at 122,052 miles, the tester identified several significant issues that were not present in previous years. The presence of structural corrosion on the rear sub-frame and front shock absorbers, combined with deteriorated brake hoses, suggests that the vehicle is beginning to enter a phase of accelerated age-related degradation despite the low overall mileage. The mileage profile is notably low for a 22-year-old car, averaging approximately 5,500 miles per year. However, there is a concerning seven-year gap in records between the June 2018 test at 118,777 miles and the May 2025 test at 121,236 miles. During this period, the vehicle covered only 2,459 miles. Such long intervals often lead to the failure of rubber components, such as the perished fuel cap seal and perished hoses noted later, and allow surface corrosion to set on metal surfaces. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the sub-frame and rear axle to determine the depth of the corrosion. Although the tester noted that structural rigidity is not yet significantly reduced, rust on these components often progresses rapidly if left unmanaged. The 2025 failure of track rod ends and lower suspension arm ball joint dust covers indicates that the suspension rubber is beginning to fail. Additionally, the pitted front brake discs and deteriorated brake hoses require immediate attention to ensure consistent braking performance and prevent fluid leaks.