2018 Mazda MX-5 1.5L Petrol · AV18 NBA

The 2018 Mazda MX-5 has maintained a consistently clean MOT history across all four tests, with no defects or advisories recorded in any of the most recent examinations. The vehicle passed its latest MOT on 2025-05-13 at 26,693 miles, and this pattern of flawless results extends back to the 2022 test at 16,799 miles. There is no evidence of recurring mechanical issues, nor are there any advisories that suggest deferred maintenance or neglect. While this record indicates the vehicle has avoided major failures during testing, the absence of advisories also means no diagnostic warnings were logged, leaving some components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake caliper binding—unverified by official inspection. The mileage progression reveals an unusually low annual average of approximately 3,337 miles, which is well below the typical range for a vehicle of this age. The most notable gap occurs between the 2022 and 2023 tests, where mileage jumped from 16,799 to 25,161—a 8,362-mile increase over just under a year. This suggests either a period of heavy use or that the vehicle was stored for an extended time before being driven more frequently. The subsequent mileage increments (25,161 to 26,189, then to 26,693) indicate minimal recent driving, which could imply the car has been parked for months prior to the 2025 test. While low mileage generally correlates with reduced wear on high-stress components, the irregular usage pattern may have allowed for minor corrosion or fluid degradation in areas like the exhaust system, suspension joints, or brake lines. Given the clean MOT record, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components not routinely tested under standard MOT procedures. The suspension—particularly the rear subframe mounts, shock absorbers, and bushings—should be examined for wear or cracking, as these are not visually inspected during an MOT. Similarly, the brake system warrants close scrutiny, including the condition of the rear brake discs and calipers, which may have developed minor binding or uneven wear despite passing tests. Corrosion is another critical factor; the underbody, wheel arches, and exhaust system should be checked for rust, especially given the vehicle’s history of variable usage. Finally, the battery, fluid levels (brake, coolant, power steering), and tyre tread depth—while not MOT failures here—should be confirmed as up-to-date, as these are often overlooked in low-mileage vehicles. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are flawless, so a thorough visual and functional assessment is essential.