2020 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · AV70 FUW

Suspension component degradation represents the primary mechanical concern for this vehicle, as evidenced by the failure recorded on 23 September 2025. While the car successfully passed its most recent MOT on 2 October 2025 following the rectification of those faults, the simultaneous failure of both front anti-roll bar linkage dust covers suggests that the suspension geometry has been subjected to consistent road wear. The record shows a generally stable trend of compliance, with clean passes in 2023 and 2024, indicating that the failure was likely a result of component fatigue rather than a systemic lack of maintenance. Accumulating 45,713 miles over a six-year period results in an average annual usage of approximately 7,619 miles, which aligns with typical expectations for a modern passenger vehicle. This consistent, moderate usage pattern suggests the car has been driven regularly rather than left stationary for extended intervals, which is generally favourable for the longevity of rubber seals, gaskets, and electrical systems. There are no significant gaps in the testing history to suggest periods of prolonged storage, meaning the drivetrain and chassis components have been kept in active rotation throughout the vehicle's life. When test driving the vehicle, pay close attention to the front suspension performance, specifically listening for any knocking or metallic clicking sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or speed humps. These noises are often the first audible indicators that anti-roll bar linkages or their associated bushings are beginning to wear, even if they currently pass inspection criteria. Ensure the steering feels precise without any vagueness or wandering, as the previous failure of the linkage dust covers can sometimes lead to accelerated wear in the steering rack ends or track rod ends if debris has been allowed to enter the joints. The tyre pressure monitoring system fault flagged in the 2025 failure should also be verified during your inspection. Ensure that all tyre pressures are correctly set to the manufacturer's specifications and confirm that the dashboard warning light illuminates during the ignition self-check and subsequently extinguishes once the engine is running. If the light remains illuminated or flashes, it may indicate a recurring sensor battery failure or a fault within the receiver module, which would require diagnostic scanning to resolve. Check that the vehicle tracks straight under braking and that there is no rhythmic vibration through the steering wheel, which would suggest uneven tyre wear or potential brake disc run-out.