2018 Mazda CX-5 2.0L Petrol · DX68 MWU

The Mazda CX-5 in question presents a remarkably clean MOT history, with the most recent test on 17 November 2025 at 24,534 miles showing no defects or advisories. This consistency extends back to 5 October 2021 , when the vehicle was tested at 9,301 miles , with every subsequent annual inspection—including those in November 2022 (10,976 miles) , November 2023 (15,188 miles) , and November 2024 (19,264 miles) —also passing without any recorded issues. The absence of advisories or failures across five consecutive tests suggests either meticulous maintenance by previous owners or, more likely, a vehicle that has been stored or used very lightly. There is no evidence of recurring mechanical neglect, which would typically manifest as repeated faults in the same systems—such as suspension wear, brake binding, or corrosion-related failures. The mileage accumulation is unusually low for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging just 3,067 miles per year , which is well below the UK’s average annual mileage for a car of this age. The gap between tests is also consistent, with each MOT spaced roughly 12 months apart, reinforcing the impression of minimal use. Such low mileage could indicate the car has spent extended periods in storage, been used primarily for short commutes, or been part of a fleet with restricted usage. While low mileage generally reduces wear on consumables like tyres and brakes, it does not preclude the need for a thorough pre-purchase inspection—particularly given the vehicle’s age and the potential for hidden corrosion or fluid degradation in systems that remain dormant for long periods. Given the complete absence of recorded faults, a buyer should still prioritise a pre-purchase inspection focusing on areas prone to silent degradation in low-mileage vehicles. Key components to examine include the suspension bushes and coil springs , which may have stiffened or degraded due to lack of movement, as well as the brake system —particularly the calipers, discs, and hydraulic lines —to rule out seized or corroded parts from prolonged inactivity. The exhaust system should be checked for surface rust, especially in regions prone to salt exposure, while the underbody and wheel arches warrant close inspection for corrosion, given the vehicle’s age. Additionally, the engine bay fluids —such as brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid—should be assessed for degradation, as stagnant fluids can break down over time even with minimal use. The tyres , despite not being flagged in MOTs, should be measured for uneven wear or dry rot, as low-mileage cars can still develop internal tyre damage if stored improperly.