2002 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · J685 JUY

The 2002 Mazda MX-5 presents as roadworthy with a stable maintenance trend. The most recent test on 28 October 2025 at 166,159 miles returned a pass with no defects recorded, and the three prior annual tests from November 2022 to November 2024 also passed cleanly. The only blemish is a failed test on 17 November 2023 at 165,875 miles that recorded no defects, immediately followed by a pass three days later on 20 November 2023 at identical mileage, suggesting an administrative or procedural rejection rather than a mechanical fault. Mileage accumulation is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle. The record shows 165,760 miles in November 2022, rising only to 166,159 miles by October 2025, a total of 399 miles over three years. Annual averages sit near 6,923 lifetime miles but the recent period shows the car was barely used, with just 193 miles between November 2023 and October 2025. Such sparse running over a sustained period implies long standing intervals, which on a 2002 roadster elevates the risk of perished rubber components, seized suspension bushes, and trapped moisture corrosion rather than high-mileage drivetrain wear. A buyer should physically inspect the structural integrity of the sills, floor pans, and suspension mounting points for corrosion, as the MX-5 chassis is prone to rust where road salt and standing dampness accumulate. The near-dormant mileage means brake discs may show surface pitting from inactivity and calipers could be binding through lack of use. Given the clean advisory history across all passing tests, no recurring mechanical faults or consumable neglect are evidenced in the official record. The previous keeper maintained statutory testing discipline, but the low recent use warrants a hands-on check of tyres for sidewall cracking, fluid contamination, and underbody condition before purchase.