1993 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · K354 FYL

The most recent MOT test on 1 April 2026—just three months ago—confirms the vehicle failed without any recorded defects, a pattern that has persisted across all five tests since July 2022. This suggests the car was not driven to the test centre for inspection, as no faults were ever remedied or reported. The lack of advisories or defects in any test implies either a deliberate avoidance of MOT testing or a misfiling of results, though the latter is unlikely given the consistent failure status. The vehicle’s roadworthiness cannot be verified beyond the most recent test date, and the absence of any corrective action raises concerns about whether critical components—such as suspension, brakes, or exhaust systems—have been properly maintained. The recorded mileage of 103,754 miles over 33 years equates to an average of approximately 3,144 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests are irregular, with a 14-month hiatus between the July 2022 and July 2023 tests, followed by a 9-month gap between the July 2023 and April 2026 tests. The rapid accumulation of just 4,075 miles between the July 2022 and July 2023 tests—followed by a complete standstill—suggests the car was either stored or driven sporadically. Such patterns often correlate with deferred maintenance, as owners may neglect routine checks when a vehicle is not in regular use. Given the lack of defects in any test, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components that are not routinely checked during an MOT. The suspension system—particularly coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for excessive play, corrosion, or binding, as these issues can develop silently over long periods of inactivity. Brake discs and calipers warrant close scrutiny for uneven wear or corrosion, especially if the vehicle was stored with wet brakes, which can lead to seizing. Structural integrity, including the chassis rails, subframe, and wheel arches, must be inspected for rust penetration or weakening, as the car’s age and low mileage may mask underlying corrosion that accelerates when a vehicle is not driven regularly. Tyres should be checked for uneven wear or embedded debris, as prolonged storage can cause sidewalls to degrade. Finally, the exhaust system should be tested for leaks or blockages, as catalytic converter efficiency is not assessed in an MOT and can degrade without use.