2011 Mazda 5 2.0L Petrol · CC08 OCC

Chronic oil leaks and deteriorating suspension components define the mechanical profile of this vehicle. While it passed its most recent test on 28 January 2026, the record reveals a persistent trend of oil leaks from the gearbox area and a recent emergence of wear in both the nearside and offside front suspension arm pins and bushes. The history is further marked by repeated failures related to critical consumables, including dangerous brake pad wear and illegal tyre tread depths, suggesting a pattern where defects are often only addressed upon MOT failure. With 98,016 miles recorded over fifteen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,534 miles per year. This usage rate is typical for its age, meaning the drivetrain and engine have experienced moderate wear. However, the recorded underbody and suspension corrosion from 2024 suggests that the vehicle's environment or exposure to road salts may have had a more significant impact on its structural integrity than the mileage alone would indicate. Particular attention must be paid to the exhaust system and braking hardware. The vehicle has a history of major exhaust leaks and insecure backboxes, alongside dangerous front brake pad wear and pitted rear discs. During a test drive, listen for excessive drone or blowing sounds from the rear of the vehicle and feel for any pedal judder or lack of bite, which would indicate that the previously flagged brake disc scoring or pad wear has returned. The most recent advisories regarding the front suspension arm bushes require a physical check for knocks or clunks when driving over speed bumps or during low-speed steering manoeuvres. Additionally, the persistent oil leak in the gearbox area should be inspected for active dripping or seepage. Given the 2024 reports of general underbody and suspension component corrosion, a thorough inspection of the subframe and load-bearing points is necessary to ensure the structural integrity remains intact.