2012 Mazda 5 2.0L Diesel · EY12 KBN

The most recent MOT test on 7 July 2026 resulted in a pass, following a failure the previous day on 6 July 2026 that was primarily attributable to defective windscreen wipers, a non-functioning offside front main beam headlamp, and dangerously worn rear brake pads with material below 1.5 mm. The vehicle was re-presented promptly and passed once these items were remedied, which is a positive indicator that the keeper addresses defects decisively. However, the underlying maintenance trend is mixed rather than consistently stable. Recurring advisories relating to front suspension arm pin or bush wear have appeared across the 2022 and 2023 tests, culminating in major failures for excessive wear on both sides in June 2023, which suggests these components have likely been replaced. The 2026 test introduces new advisories concerning slight play in the rear anti-roll bar ball joints and corrosion to the rear sub-frame, alongside headlamp lens degradation. While none of these were classified as failures, their cumulative presence indicates progressive wear typical of an ageing vehicle and warrants close scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 70,076 miles over approximately 14 years equates to an annual average of around 5,005 miles, which is notably low for the vehicle's age. This level of use typically implies either predominantly light-duty motoring with short journeys, or extended periods of standing between uses, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Low-mileage vehicles often suffer from calendar-based degradation of components such as brake discs corroding and seizing in the calipers, perished or cracked tyre sidewalls despite adequate tread depth, and reduced 12-volt battery capacity from infrequent charging cycles. Conversely, wear-related failures in suspension components are somewhat less expected at such mileage, suggesting that the repeated advisories on bushes and anti-roll bar joints may reflect age-related rubber deterioration rather than high-mileage mechanical wear, and the buyer should monitor whether further deterioration is likely. Buyers should pay particular attention to the suspension and braking systems given the documented history. The advisories for slight play in both rear anti-roll bar ball joints should be evaluated by physically rocking the rear wheel at the top and bottom to detect clonking or excessive movement, and the rear sub-frame corrosion should be inspected for any progression beyond surface oxidation that could compromise structural integrity. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or rattling from the front and rear suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed humps and rougher tarmac, and feel for imprecise steering response or vagueness that might indicate worn bushes or top mount deterioration. The brake feel should be assessed for shudder under firm application, which would suggest disc warping often associated with prolonged standing, and the handbrake should hold the vehicle firmly on an incline without excessive travel. The nearside rear brake pads having been below 1.5 mm in July 2026 implies a recent replacement, but the offside rear pads may also have been changed at that time and should be visually inspected for even wear across both sides. Given the low annual mileage and vehicle age, prospective buyers should conduct several practical checks beyond the standard mechanical inspection. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking, perishing, or bulges even if the tread depth appears adequate, as age-hardened rubber can fail suddenly regardless of remaining tread. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested if possible, as batteries over six years old in low-use vehicles frequently exhibit reduced capacity. All fluid conditions should be verified, including engine oil, brake fluid (which typically requires replacement every two years due to hygroscopic moisture absorption), and coolant, with service history stamps consulted to confirm adherence to Mazda's time-based servicing intervals rather than solely mileage-based schedules. The headlamp lenses, which have attracted recurring advisories for product contamination and slight defects, should be checked for condensation ingress or significant UV hazing that could reduce night-time visibility, and the offside main beam function verified once more. Finally, a thorough underbody examination is advisable to assess the extent and progression of the corrosion noted on the sub-frame and suspension mounting areas, as rust development in these areas can accelerate rapidly once initiated and may influence the vehicle's long-term roadworthiness.