2014 Mazda MX-5 2.0L Petrol · CH61 ARL

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-07-08 confirms it passed without defects at 98,545 miles, but the preceding failure on 2025-06-26—just 96 miles earlier—raises immediate concern. This abrupt reversal suggests either a critical component was overlooked during the earlier test or a sudden deterioration in a high-risk area. The 2024 tests, both at 87,236 miles, also show a failed and then passed result, indicating inconsistent or rushed maintenance. While the 2023 test at 76,329 miles passed cleanly, the pattern of repeated failures at similar mileage intervals implies a recurring issue rather than a one-off oversight. The mileage progression reveals a steady but typical usage rate, averaging around 8,200 miles annually, which aligns with the vehicle’s age. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—just over a year—is unusually short for a car of this mileage, suggesting either the owner prioritised MOT compliance or the vehicle was driven more frequently than usual. There are no extended periods of inactivity to suggest neglect, but the rapid accumulation of miles between failures points to either deferred maintenance or a fault that resurfaced predictably. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and pads, as binding brakes were a common failure point in similar Mazda MX-5 models at this mileage. The suspension—especially rear bushes and coil springs—should be checked for excessive wear or corrosion, as these components often fail in tandem with braking issues. Structural integrity of the subframe and wheel arches should also be examined for rust or cracks, particularly if the vehicle has seen wet conditions. The 2025 failure suggests a component may have been temporarily fixed but not properly addressed, so verifying the root cause of the abrupt MOT reversal is critical.