2009 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · HN58 AAJ

The most recent MOT on 6 May 2026 recorded a pass, but it was preceded on the same day by a failure for dangerous front‑tyre tread depth and excessive play in the nearside front track‑rod end ball‑joint. Earlier tests have been clean apart from a 2022 failure for a faulty registration‑plate lamp and an advisory on a slightly distorted off‑side front inner rim. The pattern shows that the vehicle has required reactive repairs to address safety‑critical items rather than demonstrating a steady, proactive maintenance regime, suggesting a slight deterioration in overall upkeep despite the latest pass. At 138,545 mi the car averages just over 8 000 mi per year, which is typical for a 2009 model. There are no obvious long‑term mileage gaps in the MOT record, so the usage appears consistent rather than punctuated by long periods of storage. This moderate annual mileage means that wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and suspension components will be in line with age‑related expectations, but the recent front‑tyre and ball‑joint issues indicate that the front axle has been subjected to the higher stresses that accompany regular road use. When you inspect the car, pay particular attention to the front wheels and steering assembly. Verify that both front tyres have at least 1.6 mm of tread across the treadwear bars and look for uneven wear that could point to mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or a deteriorating ball joint. With the track‑rod end previously flagged for excessive play, listen for a clunk or looseness when the steering wheel is rocked at a standstill and when turning at low speed; any looseness or wandering may indicate that the ball joint or tie‑rod end is approaching the end of its service life and will need replacement. Examine the off‑side front rim for any dents, bends or out‑of‑roundness that could have caused the earlier distortion advisory, and ensure the wheel is true after a balance check. Confirm that the registration‑plate lamp illuminates correctly on both sides, as a simple electrical fault can be remedied cheaply but will cause a MOT failure if left unattended. Given the vehicle’s age, conduct a broader condition survey beyond the recorded defects. Check the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry‑rot that can develop with time even on low‑mileage tyres. Inspect the under‑carriage and wheel arches for corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points and brake discs, which can lead to rust‑induced binding. Test the 12 V battery voltage and assess its ability to hold charge, as batteries over ten years often need replacement. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and look for signs of leakage or discolouration that would indicate the need for a flush and refill. Finally, verify that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and any major component replacements, as a well‑documented service history can offset some of the age‑related wear concerns.