1998 Mazda Bongo 2.5L Petrol · S329 OTR

A recurring weakness in the rear service brakes, together with an emerging exhaust leak and front‑subframe corrosion, dominates this Bongo’s MOT history. The vehicle cleared its latest test on 22 May 2026 with no recorded defects, yet the record shows two failures for excessive rear‑brake binding and brake‑efficiency shortfall in 2026, a major sub‑frame corrosion failure in 2023 and repeated advisories for rear‑tyre cracking and exhaust leakage over the past three years. The pattern suggests that while the most recent inspection was clean, underlying brake and structural issues have been a persistent concern. At 187 801 mi the mileage averages roughly 11 700 mi per year, which sits within a normal range for a sixteen‑year‑old light‑commercial vehicle. There are no long gaps between tests that would indicate prolonged storage, so the wear accrued is likely to be continuous rather than intermittent. The cumulative distance places considerable demand on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyre sidewalls and suspension bushings, meaning that any latent defects identified in the MOTs are likely to be approaching the end of their service life. When inspecting the rear brakes, apply firm, steady pressure to the pedal and note any sponginess, uneven feel or pulsation that could indicate binding calipers or deteriorated hydraulic lines. Listen for squeal or grinding that would point to worn discs, and check for fluid leaks around the rear brake cylinders. The tyre advisories refer to heavy cracking and perishing of both rear tyres, so examine the sidewalls for dry‑rot, bulges or tread separation, and verify that the tyres are still within legal depth and free of structural damage. The exhaust system should be inspected for any audible hissing, visible soot or black smoke at idle, which would confirm the minor leak noted repeatedly and the CO excess failures recorded in 2023. The front sub‑frame corrosion noted as a major failure in 2023 warrants a visual inspection of the mounting points and surrounding chassis for rust flaking, pitting or weakened cross‑member sections; any creaking or flex when the vehicle is driven over bumps could indicate loss of structural integrity. The anti‑roll bar linkage pin or bush flagged in 2021 should be checked for excessive play, which would manifest as a loose feel in the rear suspension during cornering. Finally, verify that the windscreen washer system now delivers fluid correctly, as a prior failure for insufficient washer liquid suggests a possible pump or reservoir issue that could affect visibility in adverse weather.