2010 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · GJ60 AEP

The Mazda 3 presents a clean MOT history with no recorded defects across its five most recent tests, including the latest pair in November 2025 at 124,275 miles. The vehicle passed both tests without advisories or failures, indicating stable roadworthiness and no signs of worsening mechanical or structural issues. The absence of repeated faults—such as brake binding, suspension wear, or corrosion—suggests the car has been maintained to meet minimum legal standards, though the lack of advisories may also imply basic checks were deferred rather than comprehensive servicing. The most recent MOT, just eight months old, confirms the car meets current emissions and safety criteria, but the back-to-back pass/fail at identical mileages in 2024 and 2025 raises minor curiosity about why the same tester recorded no issues one day and failed the next—this could reflect procedural variation rather than a genuine problem. Mileage accumulation has been steady and typical for a 16-year-old vehicle, averaging around 7,767 miles per year, with no sudden spikes or prolonged inactivity. The recorded mileage jumps—from 107,115 miles in November 2023 to 116,476 in November 2024, then to 124,275 in November 2025—align with annual testing cycles, suggesting consistent but not excessive use. There’s no evidence of neglect through rapid mileage buildup or prolonged storage, though the absence of service records means long-term maintenance habits remain unknown. The car’s age and mileage combination are well within expected ranges for a petrol Mazda 3, though potential buyers should verify if the mileage aligns with the vehicle’s service history. Given the MOT record’s sterility, a buyer should prioritise a thorough pre-purchase inspection, particularly focusing on components not covered by the basic MOT. Pay close attention to suspension components—such as coil springs, anti-roll bars, and bushings—since wear here often isn’t caught until it’s advanced. Check for binding or uneven brake operation, as the MOT doesn’t test braking efficiency beyond legal thresholds, and inspect for corrosion on control arms, subframes, or exhaust mounts, which can compromise structural integrity over time. While the MOT history shows no defects, the car’s age and mileage demand scrutiny of fluid levels, tyre condition beyond legal tread, and any signs of leaks or unusual play in the steering or drivetrain. The lack of advisories in the record may also hint at deferred maintenance, so a detailed examination of service intervals—especially for brakes, clutch, and timing belt—is essential.