1999 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · A13 NCK

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward accumulating mechanical wear and structural degradation. While the most recent test in July 2025 at 101,127 miles was a pass, it introduced several new advisories that were previously absent. The tester flagged an offside front anti-roll bar linkage with play and a damaged track rod end dust cover, alongside a persistent minor exhaust leak. The appearance of a slightly distorted nearside rear road wheel also suggests potential impact damage or manufacturing fatigue that has not yet been addressed despite the previous clean-sheet result. At 27 years old, the recorded mileage of 101,127 miles represents remarkably low usage, averaging 3,745 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-interval operation, with only 1,094 miles covered between the July 2024 and July 2025 tests. However, low mileage often correlates with age-related decay of rubber-based components. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests shows the vehicle sits for long periods, which likely explains the perishing suspension bushes and shock absorber bushes noted in the record. A buyer must prioritise a structural inspection of the underside and subframe. The 2023 record explicitly identified areas of corrosion in these regions, which is a known critical point for this generation of MX-5. Although the seat belt anchorage failure in July 2023 was rectified, the recurring mention of corrosion and perishing rubber necessitates a thorough check with a torch to ensure that surface rust has not progressed into deep structural compromise. The recurring exhaust leaks from 2023 through 2025 indicate the exhaust system is reaching the end of its functional life and will require replacement soon.