2016 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · AX16 GEY

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend regarding mechanical wear, despite passing its most recent MOT. While the 2025-12-12 test at 86,750 miles resulted in a pass, the tester identified several significant faults concerning the front end. Specifically, the offside front suspension arm ball joint showed play and a severely deteriorated dust cover, alongside damaged track rod end dust covers on both sides. These issues suggest that the vehicle's steering and suspension components are beginning to reach the end of their service life. The mileage accumulation appears consistent and typical for a ten-year-old vehicle. The car has averaged approximately 6,000 to 7,000 miles per year, moving from 51,227 miles in December 2019 to 86,750 miles in December 2025. This steady usage pattern indicates the car has not been subject to long periods of sitting idle, which can often lead to perished rubber components, though the recent suspension defects suggest that the cumulative mileage is now manifesting as mechanical wear. A prospective buyer should prioritise a physical inspection of the front suspension and steering assembly. The recent failures regarding ball joints and track rod ends indicate that further component replacements will likely be necessary in the near future to maintain roadworthiness. The 2024-11-22 test at 81,831 miles also flagged front tyres worn close to the legal limit, which, combined with the recent suspension issues, suggests a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance regarding consumables. Beyond the recorded faults, the buyer should check the condition of the nearside registration plate lamp and ensure all steering components feel tight and free of excessive play during a test drive. While the vehicle has enjoyed several years of clean MOT results between 2019 and 2023, the sudden influx of suspension and steering advisories in the latest test marks a clear shift in the vehicle's mechanical condition.