2014 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · 20 NXM

The 2014 Mazda CX-5 presents a mixed mechanical picture as of its most recent MOT on 7 October 2025 at 49,123 miles. That test was a retest following a failure on the same day, where an insecure offside front anti-roll bar linkage was rectified before a pass was issued. The overall trend is neither clearly improving nor worsening, but rather stable with persistent low-level corrosion and brake system concerns that the tester has monitored rather than deemed critical. The car passed each of its last five annual tests, yet the recurrence of corrosion-related advisories suggests long-term exposure to moisture or road salt without thorough underbody protection. The mileage progression tells a story of very light use. Between the October 2022 test at 39,214 miles and the October 2024 test at 45,755 miles, the car covered 6,541 miles in two years, averaging roughly 3,270 miles annually. The final jump from 45,755 miles in October 2024 to 49,123 miles in October 2025 represents 3,368 miles in twelve months. This is low for a vehicle of any age and points to short, infrequent journeys. Such driving patterns are known to accelerate exhaust system corrosion, brake disc glazing, and suspension component seizure, as components rarely reach full operating temperature long enough to evaporate moisture. The recurring advisories on both rear lower suspension arms, flagged as corroded but not seriously weakened in both October 2025 inspections, warrant close physical inspection. Surface corrosion on suspension arms can hide deeper pitting around bush and ball joint mounting points, particularly on a vehicle that may have stood idle for extended periods. The corroded front brake pipes, noted as covered in grease or other material, raise a question about whether the corrosion was masked rather than properly treated. A buyer should have the underside inspected on a ramp, with particular attention to the condition of the brake pipe fittings, the integrity of the suspension arm rear bushes, and any signs of welding or patching on the subframe. The October 2024 advisory for an offside rear service brake binding and a worn, pitted rear brake disc adds another layer of concern. Binding rear calipers combined with uneven disc wear can indicate a seized slide pin or a collapsed brake hose acting as a one-way valve. This should be verified by checking for excessive heat on the offside rear wheel after a short drive and by inspecting the caliper slides and hose for deterioration. Overall, the car appears fundamentally sound with no structural failures recorded, but the pattern of recurring corrosion and brake-related items points to a vehicle that has been lightly used and inconsistently maintained rather than neglected outright.