2015 Smart (mcc) Forfour 0.9L Petrol · SC65 ESO

The most recent MOT, conducted on 22 October 2025, resulted in a failure for a major defect – the near‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint was judged to be excessively worn – and an advisory noting slight play on the off‑side equivalent. This marks a regression from the previous year’s pass, which only highlighted an unsafe tyre tread depth on the off‑side front wheel. Earlier records show occasional advisories (shock absorber dust boots, brake disc surface condition) but no failures, indicating that the vehicle’s overall maintenance trend has moved from generally acceptable to a concerning deterioration in the front suspension geometry. At 48,214 mi recorded in 2026, the car averages roughly 4,400 mi per annum over its eleven‑year life, a mileage well below the typical UK usage for a 2015 model. Such low annual kilometres often point to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because rubber compounds age, lubricants degrade, and corrosion can develop on components that sit idle. The modest mileage does not, however, eliminate wear on parts that are load‑bearing, such as the anti‑roll bar joints, which appear to have suffered accelerated degradation despite the low overall distance. Prospective buyers should give the front anti‑roll bar linkage a thorough inspection. Check both ball joints for excessive play by applying firm pressure to the front wheels while the car is on a lift; any clunk or movement beyond a few millimetres suggests the joints are near the end of their service life and will need replacement. Listen for a metallic knocking or rattling from the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, which would corroborate the MOT finding. The off‑side joint’s slight play also warrants monitoring, as it may soon require attention. In addition, verify that the front tyre tread is uniformly deep and that the sidewalls show no cracking or dry‑rot, given the previous dangerous tyre tread failure; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth. Inspect the dust boots on both front shock absorbers for tears or oil leakage, as compromised boots can allow contaminants to enter the damper, leading to reduced ride quality and premature shock failure. Finally, examine the front brake discs for scoring, pitting or excessive rust, especially since advisories were issued in 2020. A visual inspection should reveal any deep grooves or corrosion that could affect braking efficiency, and a test‑drive should be used to detect any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes. Because the car has likely spent extended periods stationary, assess the 12 V battery’s cranking performance and check for any electrolyte leakage, and consider a load test. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed in line with calendar intervals – typically every two to three years – as fluid degradation can occur independent of mileage. Look for signs of rust around wheel arches, under the chassis and on suspension mounting points, and ensure that any corrosion is addressed before the vehicle is driven regularly.