2015 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · AX15 EJE

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 presents a mixed maintenance picture at 122,680 miles. The most recent MOT on 26 March 2025 passed, but the tester flagged four distinct advisories, indicating a worsening trend in basic upkeep. Both front tyres were worn close to the legal limit and wearing on the edges, a classic sign of neglected alignment or worn suspension geometry. More critically, both front lower suspension rod ball joint dust covers were severely deteriorated. These covers protect the joint from water and grit; once split, the joint degrades rapidly, leading to knocking, vague steering, and potential failure. The record shows a clean bill of health in March 2023 at 106,632 miles, yet by March 2025 the car needed significant tyre and suspension attention, suggesting the previous owner deferred routine maintenance. The mileage accumulation is steady and typical for an eleven-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 11,153 miles per year. The recorded intervals show 7,668 miles between March 2022 and March 2024, then 8,380 miles in the following year to March 2025. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer, and the vehicle appears to have been used consistently rather than left standing for long periods. The MOT history itself is unusually thorough, with two tests recorded in March 2023: a failure on the 20th for a seriously leaking offside rear shock absorber, followed by a pass on the 22nd. That fault was rectified promptly, which is a positive indicator of at least one responsive repair event. A buyer should inspect the front suspension closely. The recurring tyre wear pattern on the inner edges, combined with the perished ball joint covers, points to possible misalignment or worn track rod ends and wishbone bushes. Have the front end checked on a four-wheel alignment rack and examine the lower arms and joints for play. The rear shock absorber that failed in 2023 may have been replaced, but verify by checking for oil misting around both rear dampers and bounce-test the suspension. At this mileage, also inspect the brake discs and pads for uneven wear, the exhaust for corrosion, and the underside for any structural rust, particularly around the subframes and suspension mounting points. The tyre wear suggests the car may have been driven hard or neglected on basic checks, so a full underbody inspection before purchase is strongly advised.