2014 Mazda 5 2.0L Petrol · WG14 SOJ

The most recent DVSA examination on 27 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after a prior failed test on the same date due to a nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint being recorded as excessively worn, a Major category defect which would have required immediate rectification before the vehicle could be re-presented and ultimately passed. While the current pass status is positive, the clustering of advisories around the rear suspension and sub-frame on this test is notable, with the rear sub-frame noted as corroded though not seriously weakened, an offside front wheel bearing showing slight play, an offside rear coil spring showing corrosion, and both rear suspension arms showing surface corrosion not considered serious. Comparing the 2026 record to the 2025 test, which only flagged general rear surface corrosion to suspension components, there is a discernible deterioration in the granularity and specific localisation of corrosion-related advisories, suggesting the vehicle is in a slow but ongoing state of structural and chassis wear typical of a twelve-year-old car rather than improving. The 2024 advisories further support a consistent theme of front-end wear, with steering rack inner joint play and worn front suspension arm pins or bushes already noted, indicating that suspension and steering components have been a persistent maintenance area across the last three test cycles. With a recorded mileage of 74,662 miles over approximately twelve years, this Mazda 5 is averaging around 6,222 miles per annum, which sits broadly in line with the UK national average for a vehicle of this age and type. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT history that would suggest long periods of standing, which is mechanically favourable as it reduces the likelihood of severe brake disc corrosion, seized calipers, perished rubber components, and 12V battery degradation. Equally, the mileage is not so high that excessive wear on the clutch, turbo, or drivetrain should be a primary concern, though a Mazda 5 of this age and mileage should have had a timing chain or belt service, coolant renewals, and brake fluid changes performed in line with manufacturer schedules rather than purely mileage-based intervals. Given the recurring advisories around the rear suspension sub-frame, coil springs, suspension arms, and front anti-roll bar components, a prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical inspection of the underside of the vehicle, ideally on a ramp, paying close attention to the integrity of the rear sub-frame mounting points, the condition of all visible bushes, and any play in the anti-roll bar drop links and ball joints. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly speed humps and broken tarmac, and be alert to any vagueness or knocking from the front end that could indicate worn suspension arm pins, drop link wear, or the steering rack inner joint play previously flagged. A slightly binding or wandering steering feel, uneven rear tyre wear, or visible corrosion flaking from the rear springs would all warrant further investigation and likely budgeting for replacement components before the next MOT. Beyond the documented advisories, a twelve-year-old Mazda 5 with average mileage warrants a number of age-related checks irrespective of what the MOT history reveals. The tyres should be examined not only for tread depth but for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber degrades with age and a 2014-dated tyre may be approaching the end of its safe service life even with legal tread. The brake discs and calipers should be inspected for surface corrosion and any seized slide pins, particularly given the rear sub-frame corrosion noted, and the brake fluid should be tested for moisture content as it typically requires renewal every two years regardless of mileage. The 12V battery should be load-tested, the coolant strength and age verified, and the air conditioning system checked for proper function, as neglected systems on vehicles of this age frequently fail first. Finally, confirming a complete service history with documented cambelt or chain inspection, oil and filter changes, and evidence that previous advisory items have been addressed will provide the strongest indication that this vehicle has been conscientiously maintained rather than merely passed at test time.