2006 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · F2 SMA

The 2006 Mazda MX-5 presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 14 August 2025 at 77,139 miles, passed but flagged slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. This is a minor wear item, yet it follows a pattern of recurring suspension and structural advisories. The trend is neither clearly worsening nor fully resolving. A serious failure in November 2021 for excessive corrosion on both rear subframe mountings and seat belt anchorages was followed by a clean pass in May 2022, but that test still noted heavy under-car corrosion and perished suspension bushes. The record suggests corrosion was addressed to a MOT standard, but the underlying condition may not have been permanently cured. The mileage profile is notably low. At 77,139 miles from a 2006 vehicle, the annual average is roughly 3,857 miles. The intervals between tests show modest accumulation: 472 miles between November 2021 and May 2022, then 1,222 miles to May 2023, 1,550 miles to May 2024, and 472 miles to August 2025. The sharp drop in annual mileage in the most recent year could indicate lighter use or a period of limited driving. Low mileage reduces consumable wear but raises the risk of deterioration from standing, particularly for rubber components, seals, and brake surfaces. A buyer should focus the physical inspection on the underside. The 2021 failure for excessively corroded rear subframe mountings and seat belt anchorages is a significant structural concern. Even though subsequent tests passed, the 2022 advisory for heavy under-car corrosion and perished suspension bushes indicates the problem was managed rather than eliminated. Inspect the rear subframe mounting points, seat belt anchor sills, and inner wing lower sections for fresh underseal covering original corrosion. Check the condition of all suspension bushes, coil springs for sag or cracking, and anti-roll bar links, given the recurring play flagged in 2025. Examine the brake discs and calipers for uneven wear or binding, as low-mileage use can cause sticking. Verify the operation of the seat belt mechanisms and anchor points, as the 2021 failure directly questioned their structural integrity.