2012 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · DS12 EPA

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 presents a stable but watchful maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 30 June 2025 at 68,593 miles, passed with two minor advisories: rear brake discs showing surface wear, pitting or scoring, and corrosion noted on both rear support arms. Crucially, neither defect was deemed serious enough to fail the vehicle. Comparing this to the previous test on 3 July 2024 at 62,247 miles, the pattern is consistent. The rear support arm corrosion advisory has appeared in three consecutive tests, indicating a slow, non-critical surface issue rather than a sudden structural failure. The trend is stable, not worsening, but it demands attention. The mileage accumulation tells a story of very gentle use. Over the 14-year span, the car has covered 68,593 miles, averaging roughly 4,900 miles annually. The MOT record confirms this low-mileage lifestyle, with steady increments of approximately 5,000 to 8,000 miles between tests. The jump from 54,369 miles in July 2023 to 62,247 miles in July 2024 shows a slightly busier year, but nothing alarming. The most recent test in June 2025 recorded exactly 68,593 miles, identical to the current reading, suggesting the car has effectively stood still for the past twelve months. Long periods of inactivity can mask underlying issues like brake seizure or fluid degradation that mileage alone does not reveal. A buyer must inspect the rear suspension closely. The recurring advisory on both rear support arms points to persistent corrosion that, while currently superficial, could compromise structural integrity if left untreated. Probe the arms for flaking metal and check the mounting points for rust jacking. The rear brake discs, flagged in the latest test for pitting and scoring, need physical measurement. Surface pitting often accompanies binding calipers or stuck slides, so check the caliper pistons and guide pins for free movement. Do not ignore the exhaust system either; corrosion advisories appeared in 2022 and 2024, and a perforated silencer or leaking manifold can fail a future emissions test. Finally, verify the health of the braking and fuel systems after a year of static storage. Stale brake fluid absorbs moisture and reduces boiling point, increasing the risk of fluid fade. Inspect the brake lines for internal corrosion, especially where they route along the underbody. Drain and replace the fluid if no record exists. Check the tyre sidewalls for age-related cracking, as rubber degrades regardless of tread depth. A thorough underbody inspection on a ramp, focusing on the rear subframe, suspension mounting points, and fuel tank straps, will reveal whether the corrosion advisories have progressed beyond surface rust into something structurally concerning.