2016 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · EX66 HAA

The most recent MOT test dated 7 August 2026 recorded a PASS with no defects, which follows immediately after a fail on 6 August 2026 for fractured nearside and offside rear coil springs. Both springs were replaced and the vehicle subsequently passed without advisories, suggesting the rectification was carried out promptly and effectively. Looking at the broader trend, the 2023 and 2024 tests each carried advisories for rear brake pad wear and the 2025 test saw the rear offside brake pad reach dangerous levels below 1.5 mm before replacement, indicating rear brake components are on a regular wear cycle consistent with the vehicle's age and mileage. The recurring advisory for an oil leak, though not excessive, has now persisted across the 2024 and 2025 tests and warrants closer inspection to ensure it has not worsened or begun to affect underbonnet components. With 81,053 miles recorded over approximately ten years, this CX-5 averages around 8,100 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and suggests a balance of regular use rather than extremes of low or high mileage. The mileage progression across the MOT records is consistent and incremental year on year, with no significant gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor any abrupt jumps that might indicate odometer discrepancies. This kind of steady, average usage is generally favourable for a ten-year-old SUV, as it tends to keep seals, brakes, tyres, drivetrain and battery in regular working order rather than suffering the corrosion and fluid degradation associated with long periods of inactivity. Given the recurring advisory for an oil leak, a prospective buyer should physically inspect the underside and engine bay for fresh oil residue, paying particular attention to the sump, rocker cover gasket, and rear main seal area. Although the advisory has been classified as not excessive, oil leaks tend to progress over time and can migrate onto exhaust components or drive belts, so establishing the source and current severity is worthwhile. On a test drive, listen for any top-end rattles that might suggest low oil level from a worsening leak, and check that the oil level on the dipstick sits between the minimum and maximum markers when the engine is warm. The under trays noted in the 2024 and 2025 advisories can also mask the true extent of leaks and corrosion, so requesting their removal during inspection would allow a clearer view of the engine and subframe condition. In addition to the noted items, a vehicle approaching its eleventh birthday with average mileage warrants several age-related checks. Tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking from age, even if tread depth remains adequate, as rubber compounds degrade over time regardless of wear. The 12V battery should be load tested, as Mazda units of this era can suffer reduced cranking performance after a decade, particularly in vehicles used for shorter journeys. Brake discs should be checked for lipping or corrosion ridges, especially given the vehicle may have been stood for short periods between MOTs, and the rear calipers should be confirmed as sliding freely to prevent uneven pad consumption, which the recurring rear pad advisories could indicate. Finally, verify the service book stamps to ensure timing chain, spark plugs, brake fluid and coolant have been refreshed at calendar-appropriate intervals rather than purely mileage-based intervals, as brake fluid in particular is hygroscopic and degrades regardless of use.