2001 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · Y104 AGJ

A persistent theme across the MOT record is the steady presence of corrosion on the under‑body and suspension mounting points, with advisories appearing on every test from 2018 onward and no evidence of structural perforation. The latest test in August 2022 recorded a pass, but the same date also shows a failure entry that required a re‑test, underscoring that the corrosion was deemed non‑excessive yet still significant enough to trigger a repeat examination. Apart from the corrosion, the vehicle has suffered isolated failures – an ABS warning lamp in 2020 and a rear brake‑hose ferrule corrosion in 2020 – but no major safety‑critical defects have been recorded since the 2021 pass. At 123,033 mi spread over roughly 25 years the average annual mileage is just under 5,000 mi, which is low for a sports‑type roadster of this age. The relatively modest accumulation suggests the car has not been subjected to high‑stress, high‑kilometre duty cycles, but the pattern of MOT entries also hints at periods of limited use that can allow moisture to settle on the chassis and accelerate under‑carriage rust. There are no large mileage jumps between tests, indicating a consistent usage pattern rather than a sudden surge that would stress drivetrain or suspension components. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front and rear suspension mounting brackets on both sides. Look for any rust‑induced thinning, cracks, or loosened bolts, and on a drive listen for clunking or knocking when traversing bumps, which would signal compromised bushings or mounting integrity. The ABS fault recorded in 2020 warrants a functional check of the ABS warning light, a brief ABS activation test at a service centre, and a feel for any pulsation in the brake pedal under hard braking, as the fault may re‑appear if the wheel‑speed sensors or control module have deteriorated. The rear brake‑hose ferrule corrosion noted in 2020 should be examined for any signs of external rust, cracking, or fluid leakage; a soft or spongy pedal could indicate hose degradation. Verify that both main‑beam headlamps illuminate fully, as a headlamp failure was logged in 2018, and inspect the rear seat‑belt anchorage points for any rust that could compromise their load‑bearing capacity. Addressing these specific items before purchase will give a clearer picture of the car’s structural and safety condition despite its low mileage.