My Brabus.

[Bobby 2000]

Hi.
I've just bought my 1st Smart, subject to a new mot and a service.
Had a test drive this morning, the only negative to me was the steering which seemed reluctant to self centre, is that normal or something I should worry about. I have thought that if there's anything serious it will show on the mot.
Any comments welcome .

[Thrumbleux]

I'd be concerned about steering not self centring and if PAS doubly so. Can't remember if the Brabus version came with PAS as standard but could still be fitted as an option. From memory, there were some problems with PAS but it's a long time since it was written about on forums.
If no PAS then possibly just some friction in the system (eg steering damper) that can be ironed out. Don't though, trust an MOT tester to pick up on it. Unless he takes it for a test drive (unlikely) he will do little more than shunt it around the workshop and not notice.
If it's PAS (electric BTW) I'd research this (expensive to fix IIRC) before finally committing. Google it and look for both this forum and Smartz in the results. Good luck!

[Thrumbleux]

http://smartmaniacs.co.uk/forum/the-cars/fortwo-450-sept-1998-oct-2007/872072-power-steering-problem

[tolsen]

Could be lower universal joint on steering column getting seized up.

[Thrumbleux]

In which case the MOT tester should detect it.
I think we need to ascertain if the car has EPS or not.

[Bobby 2000]

Could be lower universal joint on steering column getting seized up.

Definitely not got p/steering,

[Thrumbleux]

That, makes it a whole lot simpler. Chances are the MOT will identify any problem and probably, as suggested, lower UJ on steering column is all it is.