2009 Mazda 2 1.3L Petrol · FD59 FON

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 10 July 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning and appears to be worsening. While the car is currently roadworthy, the history reveals a pattern of recurring and escalating issues, particularly regarding structural corrosion and braking system integrity. The recent failure due to a rough offside front wheel bearing, which had been flagged as slightly noisy in the previous year, suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 121,073 miles over 17 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,122 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a city car of this age, meaning the mechanical wear is consistent with its vintage. However, this level of usage, combined with the recorded corrosion, suggests the vehicle has been exposed to typical UK road salts over a long period, leading to the degradation of chassis components and brake lines. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the chassis and braking system. The MOT history repeatedly highlights corrosion on the front sub-frame, inner and outer sills, and general underside degradation. During a physical inspection, a torch should be used to check the extent of the scaling on the sub-frame and sills to ensure structural integrity is not compromised. Furthermore, the history of a dangerous brake pipe leak in 2021 and the current advisories regarding corroded front brake pipes indicate a systemic vulnerability. Check for any signs of fluid weeping around the pipes and ensure the brake pedal feels firm and consistent. The suspension requires scrutiny, specifically the offside front shock absorber which is currently misting oil, indicating an internal seal failure that will eventually lead to a loss of damping and poor handling. On a test drive, listen for humming or droning sounds from the front end, which could indicate that other wheel bearings are beginning to wear. Additionally, check the steering for any excessive free play as noted in previous records to ensure the rack is operating smoothly. Finally, the deteriorated headlamp lenses will reduce nighttime visibility and may require professional restoration or replacement to maintain safety.