2018 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · EK18 AET

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 6 March 2026 at 22,093 miles confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. This represents a stable maintenance trend over the past three annual tests, as the car passed cleanly in March 2024 and March 2023 without any advisories or failures. The single failure in March 2025—though at identical mileage—was likely a procedural anomaly rather than a mechanical issue, given the immediate retest passing without correction. The absence of recurring faults suggests the vehicle has been kept in basic working order, though the low mileage does not guarantee hidden wear. The recorded mileage of 22,093 miles over eight years equates to approximately 2,762 miles annually, a figure unusually low for a car of this age. This suggests either minimal use or extended periods of non-operation, which can accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and suspension components even when miles are low. Notably, the mileage increments between tests are consistent—around 1,600 miles per year—indicating no sudden spikes or prolonged neglect. However, the gap between the 2026 test and today (five months) means some components, particularly tyres and brakes, may have experienced further wear. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, as these are common points of failure in low-mileage vehicles left standing for extended periods. The brakes, while not flagged, should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been parked frequently. Corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and underbody should also be assessed, as rust can develop even with low mileage if the car has been exposed to moisture. Finally, verify the condition of the battery and fluid levels, as stagnation can degrade these systems more rapidly than mileage alone would suggest.