2016 Mazda 3 2.2L Diesel · DE16 HFR

The 2016 Mazda 3 presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 2025-09-08 at 99,570 miles, initially failed due to a fractured offside rear coil spring and subsequently passed on the same day, indicating a swift repair. However, the recurrence of a broken coil spring, first flagged in the 2023-09-06 failure at 85,971 miles, suggests a persistent vulnerability in the rear suspension. The presence of minor advisories, including an oil leak and a damaged undertray noted in 2025, points to general wear rather than systemic neglect, but the suspension issue remains a notable trend. The mileage progression is consistent and typical for a vehicle of this age. Recorded miles moved from 85,980 in September 2023 to 92,351 in September 2024, an increase of 6,371 miles, and then to 99,570 by September 2025, a further 7,219 miles. This steady accumulation of roughly 7,000 to 8,000 miles annually aligns with typical use and shows no alarming gaps or sudden spikes that would indicate long-term standing or severe misuse. A prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection on the rear suspension, given the repeated coil spring failures. Check for any corrosion or cracking on the offside rear spring and its seating, and examine the condition of the corresponding shock absorber and suspension bushes for wear or oil misting. The persistent oil leak, though deemed not excessive, warrants investigation; inspect the engine underside and around the valve cover gasket for fresh seepage. Finally, verify the security and integrity of the front undertray and engine bay undertray, as damage here can trap debris or moisture, potentially accelerating corrosion on subframe components.