2004 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · DU04 XWT

The 2004 Mazda MX-5 demonstrates a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass on 8 November 2025 at 122,728 miles with zero defects recorded. The most recent test confirms the vehicle currently meets all roadworthiness standards. The record shows two anomalous failed tests on 19 March 2025 and 11 June 2024, both registering no specific defects. These failures likely stem from testing irregularities or administrative issues rather than mechanical faults, given the immediate passes recorded shortly after at near-identical mileages. The vehicle has covered 122,728 miles over roughly 22 years, averaging approximately 5,579 miles annually, which is notably low for its age. The mileage progression reveals a significant gap between August 2021 at 114,885 miles and June 2024 at 118,217 miles, indicating just 3,332 miles driven over nearly three years. This suggests prolonged periods of standing or very light use. Since mid-2024, the annual mileage has increased slightly, with 4,493 miles covered between June 2024 and March 2025, though the mere 17 miles recorded between the March 2025 failure and the November 2025 pass confirms a straightforward retest. Despite the clean MOT record, the low annual mileage and extended gaps between tests warrant a focused physical inspection. A car standing for long periods can suffer from perishable rubber components; check the suspension bushes, tyre sidewalls, and brake calipers for deterioration or seizure. The MX-5 is also susceptible to structural corrosion, particularly on the sills, rear wheel arches, and subframes. Inspect these areas thoroughly for rust that might not immediately affect the MOT but compromises long-term structural integrity. Verify the condition of the drivetrain and cooling system, as infrequent use can cause moisture buildup and stale fluid issues.