2013 Smart (mcc) Fortwo 1.0L Petrol · YH63 UWM

Corrosion and component deterioration in the suspension and exhaust systems represent the primary mechanical concerns for this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT pass on 16 January 2026. While the vehicle has maintained a continuous pass record since 2018, the recent testing cycle shows an increasing trend of advisories regarding structural and mechanical wear. Specifically, the latest inspection flagged corroded front lower arms around the bushes, loose or corroded front brake backplates, a deteriorated exhaust flexi, and a slightly distorted offside front road wheel. This shift from the clean records seen between 2018 and 2022 suggests that age-related degradation is becoming more prominent. The recorded mileage of 51,927 miles over approximately 13 years indicates a low usage pattern, averaging roughly 3,994 miles per year. While this low annual accumulation suggests less frequent mechanical wear on the drivetrain and engine compared to higher-mileage examples, it often correlates with the type of surface corrosion and rubber perishing seen in the MOT history. The presence of advisories for cracking or perishing tyres in 2023 and 2025, alongside the ongoing corrosion of suspension components and exhaust elements, is consistent with a vehicle that may have spent significant periods stationary or has been subject to the effects of environmental moisture without the regular cleaning action of high-frequency road use. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the condition of the front suspension and braking components during a test drive. Given the advisories for corroded lower arms and bushes, listen for knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as this can indicate significant play in the suspension linkages. The reported distortion of the offside front road wheel and the issues with the brake backplates warrant a careful check for steering pull or any unusual vibrations through the steering wheel or brake pedal during deceleration. Any sensation of pedal judder or uneven braking force could be linked to the reported condition of the braking hardware. The exhaust system also requires scrutiny due to the repeated advisories regarding a deteriorating flexi and minor gas leaks. During the test drive, listen for any increased engine note, raspiness, or rhythmic ticking sounds coming from underneath the vehicle, which may indicate the exhaust leak is worsening. Additionally, the history of tyre perishing suggests that all rubber components, including various seals and hoses, should be visually inspected for signs of cracking or brittleness. Ensuring the exhaust flexi and the suspension bushes are addressed will be essential to maintaining the vehicle's roadworthiness and preventing these advisories from escalating into functional failures.