1996 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · FCZ 9122

The Mazda MX-5’s MOT history presents a stable but concerning pattern of repeated failures without defects, culminating in a clean pass just a week before the latest failure in September 2024 at 75,794 miles. The absence of any recorded advisories or defects across all five tests—despite two outright failures—suggests the vehicle passed on retest immediately after failing, a common but not ideal practice. This pattern implies the car may have been presented for test just before minor issues reached a critical threshold, rather than undergoing proactive maintenance. The most recent pass in September 2024, just nine months ago, offers some reassurance, but the lack of any documented wear items (such as tyres, brakes, or suspension components) raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven consistently or if mileage has been suppressed. The MX-5’s mileage of 75,795 miles over roughly 30 years equates to an average of just 2,526 miles annually, far below the typical annual usage for a car of this age. The near-identical mileage between tests—75,715 miles in July 2022 and 75,795 miles in September 2024—indicates the vehicle has either been stored for long periods or driven very sparingly. Such low mileage can mask wear, as components like suspension bushes, brake pads, and tyres degrade more slowly, but it also means fluids (oils, brake fluid, coolant) may have degraded without regular renewal. The absence of mileage progression between failures in July 2022 (two tests on the same day) further suggests the car may not have been in regular use during that period. Given the clean MOT history but the irregular mileage pattern, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of consumables and wear-prone components. Check tyre tread depth and condition, as the lack of advisories could mean they are at or near legal limits. Inspect brake discs and pads for uneven wear or corrosion, particularly if the car has been left unused for extended periods. Suspension components—such as coil springs, dampers, and bushings—should be assessed for stiffness or deterioration, as low mileage can still allow moisture ingress and rust formation. Finally, verify fluid levels and condition, including engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as stagnant fluids accelerate degradation. The absence of recorded defects does not guarantee the car is free from hidden issues, particularly in a vehicle with such an unusual usage history.