2003 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · ND03 AAK

The vehicle shows a history of escalating mechanical and structural concerns, particularly during the testing period in 2023. While it passed its test in May 2023 at 124,744 miles, the preceding failures in that month highlight a significant period of deferred maintenance. The tester identified a major exhaust leak, coolant leaks, and multiple suspension issues that initially prevented the emissions test from being completed. The front suspension shows signs of wear with play noted in the nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint and a worn offside rear wheel bearing. The presence of fluctuating front brakes and a leaking rear caliper suggests the braking system requires professional attention to rectify. At 124,744 miles over 23 years, the car has averaged a low mileage of approximately 5,400 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with age-related rubber degradation and surface corrosion, which is evident in the record. Between the May 2022 test at 105,548 miles and the May 2023 tests, the vehicle covered nearly 20,000 miles, a period that saw the transition from a clean certificate to multiple failures. The 2022 failure is particularly notable for noting structural corrosion on the offside front assembly where the floor to inner sill was holed, indicating the integrity of the chassis is under threat. Corrosion is a recurring theme throughout the history, with the tester flagging rust on the nearside front suspension mounting, the nearside rear seat belt anchorage, and the nearside rear enough pipe. While some of these were described as not excessive in 2023, the persistence of rust in these areas is a known risk for this model. A buyer should inspect the sills and suspension mounting points thoroughly to ensure the reported structural corrosion has not worsened beyond the previous reports. The oil leaks from the differential and engine, while described as slight, require monitoring to ensure they do not become significant.