2012 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · DS12 EPC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a recent decline in preventative care. The most recent test on July 7, 2025, at 94,992 miles saw a failure due to an inoperative engine management light and a failed registration plate lamp. While these issues were rectified to achieve a pass, the presence of advisories for a corroded offside rear coil spring and a nearside front tyre indicates that mechanical wear is being addressed only when prompted by the test itself. The mileage pattern is consistent with a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 6,800 miles per year. The jump from 84,086 miles in July 2022 to 94,992 miles in July 2025 represents a steady accumulation of roughly 11,000 miles over three years. This low annual usage rate typically reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine components, yet the age of the vehicle can often lead to the degradation of rubber components and accelerated corrosion on metal surfaces, as seen in the recent suspension-related faults. A buyer must inspect the suspension geometry closely, specifically targeting the offside rear coil spring flagged in the 2025 record. Corrosion on these springs often leads to sudden structural failure. The 2023 advisory regarding play in the nearside rear anti-roll bar linkage suggests that the suspension system is reaching the end of its functional life. Additionally, the engine management light should be verified with a diagnostic tool, as the previous failure indicates a sensor or electronic fault that may be temporarily hidden or prone to recurring issues.