2012 Mazda 5 1.6L Diesel · VK62 BFJ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-07-08 resulted in a passing outcome, though it was preceded by two failures in the preceding year, most notably in 2025-07-21 and 2024-07-18. While the 2026 test shows no major defects, the recurring issues—particularly the exhaust emissions failures and suspension ball joint wear—suggest a pattern of wear that has persisted over several years, indicating either suboptimal maintenance or inherent stress on certain components. The advisory on near- and offside rear suspension mounting corrosion, alongside the 2023 failures involving anti-roll bar linkages, highlights a consistent trend of mechanical degradation in the suspension system. This trend, combined with the high recorded mileage, implies that while the vehicle has passed recent inspections, it has not been fully serviced to address underlying wear, which could escalate into costly repairs if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s mileage of 150,919 miles at 14 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,780 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. Such mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but it does mean that consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and exhaust components have accumulated significant usage. The absence of major mileage gaps suggests consistent driving habits, though the high mileage alone warrants scrutiny of high-friction areas such as the drivetrain, exhaust system, and suspension. The presence of frequent MOT failures—particularly in exhaust emissions and suspension—may reflect either a history of neglect or a design-related susceptibility to wear in these areas, necessitating a closer inspection of fluid degradation, exhaust manifold integrity, and suspension component longevity. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension system and exhaust components, given their recurring MOT issues. The near- and offside rear suspension mounting corrosion and the worn trailing arm bush should be checked for further deterioration, with particular attention to any clunking noises from the rear suspension during cornering or over bumps, or excessive play when the vehicle is lifted slightly off the ground. The anti-roll bar linkages, which failed in 2023 with excessive wear, may exhibit binding or excessive noise when the vehicle is driven at speed, and the ball joints should be inspected for any signs of leakage or excessive movement. The exhaust emissions failures indicate a likely issue with the catalytic converter or exhaust manifold, which could cause black smoke on acceleration or a rough idle; a test drive should include acceleration from a standstill to observe smoke output, and the exhaust should be visually inspected for leaks or excessive heat buildup. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the tyre condition, as advisories in 2024 noted near-legal wear on both front and rear tyres. Tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to age-related degradation, and the tread depth should be checked for uniformity and wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension issues. The battery should be tested for age-related failure, especially given the vehicle’s age, as standing corrosion or internal degradation can lead to poor starting performance or electrical gremlins. Additionally, fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for signs of contamination or degradation, as these fluids can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for rust, cracks, or disconnections, and a check of the CV joint boot for leaks or wear, will help confirm the extent of the exhaust-related failures and ensure the vehicle remains compliant with emissions standards.