2016 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · AY16 WHJ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-11, just five months ago at 78,310 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. However, the history reveals an unusual pattern: two consecutive failures at the 45,311-mile mark in February 2024, followed by a clean pass shortly after. This suggests either a temporary oversight in maintenance or a minor, repeatable issue that was corrected before the next test. The absence of defects in the last two passes indicates no persistent structural or safety-critical failures, but the repeated failures at the same mileage—just 10 miles apart—raise questions about whether a specific component was overlooked or improperly serviced. The most recent pass, combined with the lack of advisories, implies the vehicle has since operated without immediate concerns, though the earlier anomalies warrant closer scrutiny. The recorded mileage progression shows a steady average of approximately 7,831 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. Notably, there is a 17,211-mile gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests, where the vehicle accumulated 17,211 miles in just over a year, followed by another 15,788 miles before the latest pass. While this rate is consistent with regular use, the extended period without an MOT—particularly the 17-month hiatus—could imply either infrequent testing or a vehicle that was not actively driven during that time. The double failures at the 45,311-mile mark, occurring within hours of each other, suggest a mechanical issue that was either misdiagnosed or temporarily resolved without addressing the root cause. This pattern does not necessarily indicate neglect but does highlight a need for verification that such problems have been permanently addressed. Given the lack of defects in the most recent tests, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on the components that may have caused the earlier failures. The repeated failures at the same mileage in February 2024—despite being just 10 miles apart—strongly suggest a recurring issue with either the braking system, suspension alignment, or wheel bearings. Binding brakes, worn suspension bushes, or misaligned wheels are common causes of such repeated MOT failures. Additionally, the extended gap between tests means the vehicle may have operated for nearly 18 months without a formal inspection, increasing the likelihood of wear in consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluid levels. Inspectors should pay particular attention to the rear brakes, suspension components, and tyre tread depth, as these are the most likely candidates for the anomalies observed in the MOT history. Corrosion in wheel arches or underbody panels, while not yet flagged, should also be checked given the vehicle’s age.