1990 MAZDA MX-51.6L PETROL

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT, but the maintenance record indicates a concerning trend of structural and mechanical neglect. While it passed the test in September 2025 at 268,191 miles, the immediate failure just ten days prior at 268,160 miles highlights significant safety issues that were only recently rectified. The history shows a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than preventative care, as evidenced by the recurring failure of critical components and structural repairs being addressed shortly after previous passes. At 36 years old, the recorded 268,191 miles represent an average usage of approximately 7,450 miles per annum, which is consistent with a classic car. However, the mileage accumulation accelerated significantly between August 2023 and August 2025, where the car covered nearly 27,000 miles in two years. This increased rate of use on an aging platform places high stress on rubber components and braking systems, which explains the recent failures related to the steering rack and brake system observed in the 2025 test cycle. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity of the sills and inner arches. The August 2025 failure revealed inadequate repairs to seat belt anchorages involving fiberglass and holes, which suggests a sub-standard attempt to mask deep-seated structural corrosion. The presence of sill covers in the most recent tests often hides underlying rot; given the under-body surface corrosion noted in 2023 and the excessively corroded brake pipes in 2025, the vehicle's chassis is at high risk of advanced oxidation. The steering and braking systems also require close scrutiny. The tester flagged play in the nearside front steering rack inner joints in late 2025, a fault that affects handling and safety. Furthermore, the previous failure of the parking brake efficiency and the inoperative nearside rear drum indicates the hydraulic system or mechanical cables are poorly maintained. Given the front oil leak noted in the latest test, a professional inspection of the engine seals and sump is necessary to ensure the leak is not escalating.