2008 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · F18 BAL

Recurring advisories concerning oil leaks, brake component wear, and tyre degradation define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, which passed its most recent MOT on 13 February 2026. While the vehicle has maintained a continuous testing record since at least 2023, the data shows a persistent pattern of minor component wear rather than sudden structural failures. The most recent test included a failure regarding insufficient windscreen washer liquid, though the subsequent pass noted several ongoing advisories including an oil leak, thinning rear brake pads, a damaged nearside rear tyre, and slight play in the front track rod end ball joints. The recorded mileage of 72,361 miles over approximately 18 years indicates a low annual usage rate of roughly 4,020 miles. This pattern of infrequent use can often lead to specific mechanical issues, such as the perishing and cracking of rubber components like tyres and CV boots, which are explicitly documented in the MOT history. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the drivetrain and engine internals, the age of the vehicle means that rubber seals, suspension bushes, and tyres are subject to environmental degradation and age-related hardening regardless of the distance travelled. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the documented history of oil leaks and brake wear. The persistent advisory for an oil leak, noted in every test from 2024 through 2026, warrants a thorough inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage for active dripping or heavy staining. Regarding the braking system, the record shows a consistent trend of thinning pads and pitted or scored rear discs. During a test drive, listen for any squealing or grinding noises during deceleration and check for any pedal judder or uneven braking force, which could indicate sticking calipers or warped discs. Suspension and steering components also require scrutiny due to recorded advisories for worn nearside front suspension bushes and play in the track rod ends. On the road, these issues may manifest as knocks or clunks when driving over uneven surfaces or a vague, wandering sensation through the steering wheel. Furthermore, the 2025 advisory regarding rear subframe corrosion, while noted as not seriously weakened at that time, should be visually inspected for any progression of surface rust or structural pitting. Finally, the history of deteriorated CV boots suggests that the drive shafts should be checked for grease leakage or clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds.