2018 Mazda CX-5 2.0L Petrol · EU68 MBF

The most recent DVSA examination on 11 October 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, and the three preceding annual tests in October 2024, October 2023 and October 2022 were similarly clean passes with no advisories issued. This is an exemplary MOT profile, indicating that the vehicle has consistently met statutory roadworthiness requirements without any areas of concern being flagged by the examiner. The 2021 test, whilst also a pass, did carry a small cluster of advisories that warrant attention, but no recurring or escalating defect pattern is visible in the more recent history, suggesting a stable and well-maintained mechanical condition overall. With 36,466 miles recorded against an eight-year vehicle age, this Mazda CX-5 has covered approximately 4,558 miles annually, which is notably low for its class and age. Such modest usage typically points to predominantly short journeys, possibly combined with periods of standing, rather than sustained motorway driving. From a mechanical perspective, low annual mileage can be a mixed blessing: whilst wear on major drivetrain components, suspension and braking surfaces will be minimal, prolonged standing periods frequently accelerate degradation of items that deteriorate with calendar age rather than use, including perishing of rubber components, oxidation of brake discs and calipers, and loss of battery capacity. Given the absence of any recurring advisories in the more recent MOT records, a prospective buyer should focus their pre-purchase inspection on age-related degradation rather than specific flagged defects. The 2021 advisory regarding uneven inner-edge wear on both front tyres is worth verifying has not reappeared; on a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces and pay particular attention to the steering response, as uneven inner-edge wear on a front axle can point to misalignment, worn suspension bushes or weak coil springs. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall cracking and perishing, which is common on low-mileage vehicles that have sat in sunlight, and check the tread depth with a gauge rather than relying on visual estimation. Examine the brake discs for any surface rust that does not clear after the first few brake applications, and confirm that the calipers release cleanly without any binding that might cause pulling to one side under braking. The 2021 advisory concerning a screw in the offside rear tyre should be verified as having been permanently remediated, and the TPMS warning light history should be discussed with the vendor to ensure the sensor fault was rectified. Beyond the items referenced in the MOT history, a comprehensive evaluation should include verification of the 12-volt battery's state of charge and load capacity, as batteries on low-use vehicles frequently suffer sulphation and may fail without warning. Inspect the engine bay and underbody for any signs of fluid leakage from the oil cooler, power steering rack or differential seals, and check the coolant and brake fluid service history, as these are time-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive services that require replacement regardless of odometer reading. Confirm that the service book has been stamped at appropriate intervals and that the cambelt or timing chain replacement interval has been observed according to Mazda's schedule. Finally, ensure all warning lamps extinguish promptly after engine start, that the air conditioning system delivers cold air consistently, and that the infotainment and driver assistance systems function as intended, as electronic gremlins can develop through age rather than use.