2017 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · AF67 WRP

The most recent DVSA MOT outcome for this 2017 Mazda 3 is a fail recorded on 3 November 2025, where a major defect was identified for an offside rear coil spring recorded as fractured or broken under section 5.3.1 (b) (i). It is worth noting that the same date also carries a pass entry, which typically indicates the vehicle was submitted, failed, then immediately retested and passed once the defect was rectified. Looking at the wider trajectory across 2020 through 2024, the vehicle has consistently passed its annual tests, although a steady accumulation of advisories relating to rear brake discs, rear brake linings, front brake pads, and front tyre wear has been present since 2021. The coil spring failure represents the first genuine failure in the recorded history and, while it has now been resolved, it is an indicator that suspension components on this chassis are entering a wear phase commensurate with its age and mileage. Against an age of approximately nine years, the recorded mileage of 62,018 miles equates to an annual average of around 6,891 miles, which is broadly typical and indicates regular rather than occasional use. There are no significant gaps between MOT tests, with annual submissions recorded consistently from 2020 through 2025, suggesting the vehicle has been in steady circulation rather than left standing for prolonged periods. This kind of usage pattern is generally favourable from a corrosion and fluid degradation standpoint, as regular running helps keep the 12V battery charged, prevents brake calipers from seizing, and avoids the moisture accumulation that can damage internal components. The mileage is not high enough to suggest imminent major drivetrain concerns, but it is sufficient that common wear items such as suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and engine mountings should be expected to be approaching the latter portion of their service life. With the advisories on both front tyres wearing on the outer edge flagged in 2023, and the nearside front tyre cut noted in 2021, prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the current set of tyres. Uneven outer edge wear on the front axle is commonly symptomatic of incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or weak top mounts, and even though new tyres may have been fitted since, the underlying geometry issue could persist and cause premature wear on any replacement rubber. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps and uneven road cambers, and check that the vehicle tracks straight without pulling. A four-wheel alignment check would be a sensible precaution, particularly given the fractured rear coil spring event, which suggests the suspension as a whole deserves close scrutiny for any further fatigue on the remaining springs, bushes, and dampers. The recurring rear brake disc and lining advisories from 2021 and 2022 indicate that the rear braking system has been progressively deteriorating, and although the 2024 and 2025 tests do not re-record these concerns, it does not guarantee that a refurbishment has been carried out. Buyers should inspect the rear discs for visible lipping, corrosion pitting around the outer edge, and any scoring on the friction surface, while also checking that the calipers are releasing cleanly rather than binding, which on a Mazda of this age can lead to uneven braking and rear disc overheating. On a test drive, the brake pedal should feel firm and progressive without excessive travel, and any shudder through the pedal or steering wheel under firm braking would suggest disc runout. Beyond the recorded items, given the vehicle is now nine years old regardless of its moderate mileage, it would be prudent to verify the age and condition of the 12V battery, inspect all brake and coolant fluid for recent renewal in line with time-based servicing schedules, examine the underside and wheel arches for any corrosion that may have developed since the last MOT, and confirm a complete service history with particular attention to timing belt or chain replacement intervals and recent spark plug renewals where applicable.