2017 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · CF17 RFZ

The most recent MOT on 21 March 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, confirming that the vehicle currently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions criteria. Over the six‑year MOT record the pattern shows a generally stable maintenance picture – earlier tests were clean, while from 2020 onward a series of advisories have highlighted progressive wear on the rear braking system and front tyre tread. The absence of any outright failures suggests that the owner has kept the car roadworthy, but the recurring brake and tyre advisories indicate that wear items are approaching the end of their service life and will need attention soon. At 77,152 miles recorded for a 2017 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8,600 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no evident periods of unusually high mileage accumulation that would suggest aggressive short‑term use, nor are there large gaps that would imply prolonged storage. Consequently the wear observed is principally a function of normal calendar and distance ageing rather than extreme stress, meaning that components such as the suspension, drivetrain and engine are likely to be in line with their expected service intervals. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the rear braking assembly. The 2023 advisory flagged thin rear pads and discs that are pitted or scored, a condition that can lead to reduced braking efficiency, pedal pulsation or a faint grinding noise under hard application. A thorough visual inspection of the rear pads for a remaining thickness of at least 2 mm and a tactile check of the disc surface for deep scoring is essential. During a test drive the rear brake pedal should feel firm and not sink under sustained pressure; any shudder or vibration when applying the brakes, especially at moderate speeds, is a clear sign that the pads and discs will need replacement before the next MOT. Front brake pads were noted in 2020 as being around 4‑5 mm; verify that they have not fallen below the 3 mm minimum, and listen for any squeal that could indicate wear or glazing. Tyre condition also requires immediate scrutiny. The 2022 MOT highlighted front inner tread wear close to the legal limit and a nail in the off‑side rear tyre, suggesting uneven wear patterns that may stem from mis‑aligned suspension bushes, toe settings or worn steering components. Examine all four tyres for tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm across the tread width), sidewall cracking, and any signs of age‑related perishing, especially given the vehicle’s nine‑year lifespan. Confirm that the nail‑affected tyre has been repaired or replaced and that the wheel balance is correct. While the car’s mileage is moderate, age‑related degradation can affect the battery, coolant, brake fluid and engine oil; a load‑test of the 12 V battery, a check for any coolant leaks, and verification that the service book shows fluid changes at roughly 12‑month intervals will give further confidence that the vehicle will remain reliable and MOT‑compliant for the near future.