2008 Mazda 6 2.5L Petrol · DN08 FMD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 2 December 2025, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning and appears to be worsening. While the vehicle has consistently passed in recent years, there is a growing list of advisories related to suspension, braking, and structural integrity. The transition from a clean record in 2019 to a dangerous brake failure in 2020, followed by a steady stream of wear and tear advisories, suggests a shift toward reactive rather than preventative maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 117,449 miles over an eighteen year period, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,525 miles per year. This usage profile is typical for its age and suggests a consistent history of moderate use. Mechanically, this means the drivetrain has not been excessively stressed, but the vehicle is at a stage where rubber components, suspension bushings, and engine seals are reaching the end of their natural service life, which is evidenced by the recurring advisories for ball joints and oil leaks. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the recurring mention of rear sub-frame corrosion. This is a significant structural concern that requires a physical inspection to ensure the corrosion is merely superficial and has not compromised the integrity of the chassis. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds from the front end, which would indicate the progression of the play in the offside front upper suspension arm ball joint. Additionally, the reported oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber suggests the damper is failing and will soon require replacement to maintain ride quality and tyre contact. The braking system warrants a thorough evaluation given the history of dangerous imbalance and pitted discs. Check for brake shudder under deceleration and ensure the pedal feel is firm and consistent. The history of inner and outer edge tyre wear suggests a misalignment of the steering geometry, which should be verified by inspecting the current tread depth and pattern. Finally, the previous advisories for low coolant and oil leaks necessitate a check of the engine bay for residue and a verification of the service history to ensure the cooling system has been flushed and the oil leak has been professionally addressed.