2008 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · FN08 XMB

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of escalating corrosion and deferred component replacement. While the most recent test in March 2026 at 70,765 miles passed, it flagged a corroded offside rear coil spring. This follows a pattern of recurring suspension issues and brake wear noted over the previous four years. The data suggests that while the car is kept in transit, the underbody components are reaching a stage of significant degradation due to age rather than high mileage. At 70,765 miles, the Mazda has covered significantly less ground than the average contemporary vehicle, averaging roughly 3,900 miles per year. The mileage accumulation is consistent, with intervals of approximately 5,000 miles recorded between the 2022 and 2026 tests. However, low mileage often correlates with the environmental damage seen here, as evidenced by the multiple reports of surface rust on the subframe, suspension arms, and springs. The vehicle likely sits for long periods, which can accelerate moisture retention and subsequent oxidation of exposed metalwork. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and subframe, as the 2023 test explicitly noted structural corrosion. Although the tester stated structural rigidity was not reduced at that time, the recurring mention of corrosion across front and rear suspension arms and the subframe indicates an active process. Specific attention should also be paid to the rear braking system; the record shows a consistent history of thin pads and pitted discs from 2023 through 2025, suggesting that brake components are only addressed when they approach failure limits.