2009 Smart (mcc) Fortwo Coupe 0.8L Diesel · WM09 HBL

A clear pattern of front-end steering and suspension wear has emerged across the MOT history of this 2009 Smart Fortwo, with multiple advisories and a notable failure pointing to deterioration of the anti-roll bar linkage, track rod ends, and steering rack inner joint. The most recent test on 29 November 2024 resulted in a pass, but the same date also records a failed attempt due to an inoperative nearside rear stop lamp, which was presumably rectified to allow the subsequent pass. Alongside the lamp failure, the 2024 test repeated the long-running advisories for slight play in the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and nearside front track rod end (noted specifically as the rack end), both of which had also been flagged on the 2023 and 2021 tests. The rear coil springs were additionally noted as corroded on both sides in 2024, and the offside front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover was recorded as severely deteriorated across two consecutive tests. Taken together, the record shows a vehicle that remains legally roadworthy yet displays chronic front suspension and steering component wear consistent with its age and accumulated mileage. Recorded mileage of 148,469 miles across approximately 17 years equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 8,700 miles per year, which sits close to the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. The mileage progression is consistent year on year without obvious gaps or unusually rapid increases, indicating that the car has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods. There is no evidence of a long-term lay-up that would raise concerns about dormant component degradation such as seized brakes or perished fuel lines. The earlier part of the record (2019 through 2022) shows relatively clean outcomes with only minor advisories, while the more recent tests reveal an accelerating accumulation of advisories concentrated around the front axle, which is mechanically consistent with a high-mileage urban-driven Smart Fortwo where the small wheels and tight suspension geometry are subject to constant loading. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing area of attention is the front suspension and steering assembly. The recurring advisories for anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play, track rod end play, and the dangerous advisory recorded in 2021 for play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint suggest that the rack itself may now be approaching the end of its service life. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front wheels when traversing speed humps or uneven road surfaces, and check for any looseness or vibration through the steering wheel, particularly over undulating tarmac. Examine the offside front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover closely, as a torn boot will allow rapid deterioration of the ball joint underneath. The rear coil spring corrosion advisory also warrants a visual inspection of the springs for surface pitting or any loss of ride height, which could indicate advanced corrosion. Brake system condition has been a recurring theme, with a major failure recorded on 2 August 2021 for an excessively corroded offside front brake pipe, a component which sits exposed to road salt and moisture. Although the brake pipe was presumably replaced to achieve the pass on 4 August 2021, the 2020 test also noted general front brake pipe corrosion covered in grease, which suggests the brake line network on this vehicle is vulnerable. On inspection, ask to see the brake pipe routing along the underside of the chassis and under the wheel arches, paying particular attention to any surface rust, kinks, or evidence of recent replacement. Both front brake discs were flagged as worn, pitted, and scored in 2020, so check for brake judder under firm pedal pressure and verify there is sufficient material remaining on the discs. The 2021 advisory for an oil leak that was not excessive should also prompt a check of the undertray and engine sump area for fresh oil staining, and the 2020 advisory for a minor exhaust gas leak warrants a listen for any ticking or hissing from the exhaust manifold or front pipe when the engine is cold.