2012 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · VK12 ACO
2012 Mazda 3 (1.6L, petrol). First registered 07/03/2012. Recorded mileage 52,486 miles. MOT valid until 23/01/2027. Taxed until 01/01/2027.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA 3
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Worcester
- MOT Status
- Valid until 23/01/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/01/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 52,486 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2012
- Engine
- 1598cc
VK12 ACO Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 22/01/2026
- 52,486 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Digital Service History
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VK12 ACO Mileage History
- 16/02/202241,463 mi
- 16/02/202344,200 mi+2,737 mi
- 24/01/202446,893 mi+2,693 mi
- 23/01/202549,876 mi+2,983 mi
- 22/01/202652,486 mi+2,610 mi
Average of roughly 2,804 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
VK12 ACO MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Mazda 3 (VK12 ACO) between February 2022 and January 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
No failures or advisories appear anywhere in the recorded tests, so the documented MOT record is relatively clean.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A highly recommended purchase for buyers seeking a low-mileage, well-maintained hatchback. Its consistent MOT record and exceptionally low usage make it a rare find for a 2012 model.
Given the very low annual mileage, your primary focus should be on the service history. Ensure the oil has been changed regularly regardless of the distance covered, as old oil can degrade over time. Check for any evidence of 'sitting' issues, such as perished rubber seals or battery health, which can occur when a car is not driven frequently.
Negotiate based on the age of the tyres and consumables. While the car has low mileage, the rubber components are now over a decade old. Verify that the power steering leak and brake binding issues identified in 2020 were professionally repaired and that no recurring leaks are present.
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a balanced blend of reliability and efficiency, though it won't match modern hybrids. You can expect moderate fuel economy typical of a naturally aspirated petrol engine of this era, paired with a standard insurance group for a family hatchback.
Maintenance costs should remain low given the vehicle's current condition, though a major service may be due if it hasn't been performed recently. Estimated annual costs include the annual road tax, insurance, and a modest budget for preventative maintenance.
Pay close attention to the braking system and power steering. The MOT history from February 2020 notes a front service brake excessively binding and a leaking nearside power steering pipe; ensure these were rectified and that there is no current seepage or unusual noise when turning the wheel.
Additionally, check the tyre dates and tread depth. A 2016 failure for low tread suggests the car can occasionally be neglected in terms of basic wear-and-tear items. Inspect the windscreen washer system to ensure it is fully operational, following a previous failure in 2016.
This grey Mazda 3 (1.6L petrol) is in remarkable condition for its age, having covered only 52,486 miles over 14 years. The MOT history shows a consistent pattern of passes with only two minor failure events, suggesting a vehicle that has been lightly used and generally well cared for. Its low mileage significantly enhances its long-term value proposition.
While aggregate data is unavailable, this specific vehicle's history of consistent MOT passes suggests high individual reliability.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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