1997 MAZDA MX-51.8L Petrol

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 2025‑10‑22 at 149,796 miles, but the test recorded a series of advisories that together paint a picture of a car that is roadworthy yet showing clear signs of ageing. An oil leak (8.4.1 (a) (i)) persists, front and rear inner tyres are worn close to the legal limit (5.2.3 (e)), and the offside front brake pipe is corroded and covered in grease (1.1.11 (c)). The coil springs on both axles show corrosion (5.3.1 (b) (i)), the anti‑roll bar linkage pins/bushes are worn (5.3.4 (a) (i)), and the rear shock absorbers exhibit light oil misting and worn bushes (5.3.2 (b) and (c)). Structural corrosion appears in the rear sub‑frame, outer sills and the nearside rear outer sill. The overall maintenance trend is stable to slightly worsening; the same oil leak and brake‑pipe corrosion have appeared in successive tests, while new concerns such as rear shock oil mist and sub‑frame corrosion have emerged. Mileage progression is modest for a 29‑year‑old vehicle. From 103,727 miles in April 2013 to 149,796 miles in October 2025 the car has added roughly 5,200 miles per year, a low rate that suggests light use or extended periods of storage. MOT records are annual from 2013 through 2025, with no significant gaps or sudden mileage jumps, indicating a consistent inspection schedule rather than a sudden increase in usage. A buyer should inspect the car in person for the recurring fault areas highlighted in the history. Check the oil system for any leak, examine the front and rear coil springs for corrosion, and test the anti‑roll bar linkage for excessive movement. Inspect the brake pipes for corrosion and grease contamination, verify tyre tread depth on the inner tyres, and assess the rear shock absorbers for oil mist and bush wear. Examine the rear sub‑frame, outer sills and nearside rear outer sill for rust, and review the front suspension arm for corrosion. Also inspect the brake pads and discs for thin wear, verify the steering rack play, and note any windscreen damage that does not affect the driver’s view. The car remains legally roadworthy, but the accumulation of corrosion, worn suspension components and brake‑system issues indicates that targeted repairs will be necessary before the vehicle can be considered in optimal condition. The low mileage suggests the mechanical parts have not been heavily stressed, yet the rust and suspension wear demand a thorough pre‑purchase inspection to ensure the buyer is not inheriting costly repairs.