2018 Smart (mcc) Fortwo 1.0L Petrol · YB68 ULG

The most recent DVSA examination on 28 October 2025 resulted in an initial fail due to a major defect concerning the windscreen washer providing insufficient washer liquid, a straightforward fluid top-up or jet clearance issue, after which the vehicle passed the same day. An advisory was also recorded for slight damage or fraying to the offside seat belt webbing. Reviewing the broader MOT trajectory, the test record demonstrates a generally stable pattern with no structural or corrosion advisories recorded at any point, although the dangerous tyre tread failures on both front tyres in November 2023 represent a concerning lapse in routine tyre maintenance. With those tyres replaced and the subsequent test in 2024 showing no defects, and the 2025 pass being achieved without any mechanical advisories, the overall trend can be regarded as stable and improving rather than deteriorating, though the seat belt fraying should not be ignored as it will likely progress. With 86,964 miles recorded against an age of approximately eight years, this Smart Fortwo is averaging around 10,870 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this type and age. There are no conspicuously large gaps in the MOT history to suggest extended periods of standing, and the gradual mileage accumulation is consistent with a car that has been in regular use, predominantly in an urban environment where the Fortwo is designed to operate. This pattern is mechanically favourable as it implies components such as the brakes, tyres, suspension bushes, and clutch have been exercised regularly rather than suffering the corrosive effects of long-term immobility. The recorded mileage places the vehicle into the higher consumption bracket for consumables, meaning the braking system, tyres, and drivetrain components will have experienced more wear cycles than a lower-mileage equivalent, but nothing unusual for a small city car of this vintage. From a buyer inspection perspective, the advisory regarding the offside seat belt webbing fraying warrants close attention, as frayed webbing compromises restraint effectiveness and the defect is unlikely to have self-repaired since the test; a physical examination of the belt for cuts, pulled threads, or stiffness is advisable, and replacement of the belt assembly may be required. The earlier dangerous tyre failures suggest that previous ownership may not have monitored tread depth closely, so a thorough check of all four tyres for current tread depth, even wear patterns, and any signs of sidewall damage or ageing cracking is essential, as the Fortwo uses specific narrow tyres that can be expensive. Given the higher-than-average mileage, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the rear engine and transmission, listening for any unusual whines or clonks from the back of the vehicle during a test drive, and checking for oil leaks around the engine bay seal and gearbox. Additionally, while the brake discs and pads flagged in the 2022 advisory would likely have been replaced, a buyer should still inspect the brake calipers for binding, particularly as rear calipers on the Fortwo can seize due to infrequent use, and the front discs should be checked for lipping and corrosion. Given the urban usage profile, the brake fluid should be considered for renewal based on calendar age regardless of pad condition, as hygroscopic fluid degrades over time, and the coolant similarly should be checked for age-related deterioration. A cold start should be performed to listen for any timing chain rattle from the rear engine, and the 12V battery, typically located in the service hatch, should be load-tested as battery failure is common on vehicles of this age. Finally, the undertray advisory noted in 2021 is largely cosmetic but warrants confirming the undertray remains secure and that no underlying components have been inadvertently damaged or neglected during any undertray removal.