2005 Smart Roadster 0.7L Petrol · SN05 EMK

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding structural integrity and component degradation. While the car passed its most recent test on June 2026 at 75,502 miles, this followed a failure just two weeks prior at 75,470 miles. The recent pass addressed a critical offside rear tyre failure but left long-seated issues with structural corrosion and corroded brake pipes as advisories, indicating that the vehicle is entering a phase where rust may out repair. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 21-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,600 miles per year. The data shows consistent but infrequent use, moving from 72,302 miles in May 2024 to 75,502 miles in June 2026. This low mileage often explains the presence of rubber-based failures, such as the perishing tyres and damaged track rod end dust covers noted in 2025, as components suffer from age oxidation and environmental exposure rather than mileage-related wear. A buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the rear vehicle structure, as the tester consistently flagged corrosion on the nearside and offside rear sections over the last two years. Although structural rigidity is not yet compromised, the progression of this rust alongside corroded coil springs is concerning. The corroded rear brake pipes also require close attention, as the presence of grease on the pipes suggests an attempt to mask surface oxidation which could lead to a sudden hydraulic failure if not replaced. The braking system shows signs of neglect, with pitting and scoring on both front discs that have been noted since at least 2025. Furthermore, the persistent oil leak identified in the two most recent tests needs a definitive source-check to determine if it is a minor seal or a failing gasket. Given the previous rough wheel bearing noted in 2024, the buyer should test the entire suspension for play or noise to ensure no further mechanical faults have developed during the periods of low use.