2016 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · DC66 FGP

A pattern of recurring brake pipe corrosion advisories and a recent drivetrain failure form the central mechanical story of this Mazda 2's MOT history. Across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 tests, both front brake pipes have been flagged as corroded and covered in grease or other material, and although these were recorded as advisories rather than failures, the repetition on the same components year after year indicates a deterioration that warrants direct physical inspection, as grease is typically applied to mask active surface corrosion on the ferrous sections of the brake line. The July 2026 test cycle is more concerning, as a failure was recorded on 24 July for an offside front outer constant velocity joint boot that was split and no longer preventing the ingress of dirt, a Major defect that would typically lead to inner CV joint contamination and eventual replacement of the driveshaft. A retest on 25 July resulted in a pass, but the underlying advisories around rear Tyre perishing, an offside rear Tyre worn close to the legal limit on the nearside rear, and continued slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint all remained present from the failure. The recorded mileage of 54,532 against an age of approximately ten years equates to an average annual accumulation of around 5,400 miles, which is notably low for the vehicle's age. The mileage history shows progression from the 2021 tests through to the 2026 entry, suggesting the car has been in regular but light use rather than left standing for extended periods, which tends to reduce the risk of issues such as seized brakes, deteriorated coolant, and rodent damage to underbonnet wiring. That said, the relatively low annual mileage combined with the recurring brake pipe corrosion advisories suggests the vehicle may have been exposed to harsher winter road conditions or short journeys where salt accumulates on the underbody without being washed away by longer motorway runs. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing areas to examine physically are the front brake pipes along their entire length, particularly at the corroded sections, to confirm whether the metal is pitted or whether the advisory is purely cosmetic. On a test drive, listen for any clicking or rhythmic knocking from the front wheels, especially during full-lock turns, as the recent CV boot failure may have allowed contamination into the joint and audible symptoms might now be present even though the vehicle passed the retest. The nearside front anti-roll bar linkage should be checked by hand for free play, and the rear Tyres, including the nearside which was noted as worn on the edge, should be inspected for uneven wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or worn rear suspension bushes. Additional checks should focus on the front brake pads, which were noted as wearing thin in 2023, meaning replacement is likely due if not already carried out, and pedal feel should be firm and consistent under both light and heavy application. Inspect the rear wiper blade for effective wiping, as a deteriorated rubber was flagged in 2021. Finally, given the Mazda 2's known susceptibility to corrosion in older age, the rear wheel arches, sills, and subframe mounting areas should be examined for any surface rust that may not have been flagged during the MOT but could become relevant for future roadworthiness, particularly if this vehicle has been used primarily in coastal or salted-road environments.