2009 Mazda 5 1.8L Petrol · FN09 YCJ

The most recent MOT test on 14 August 2026 resulted in a pass, however it should be noted that this pass was achieved immediately after a same-day failure, meaning significant defects were identified and rectified prior to the retest. The vehicle recorded a Dangerous defect for front brake pads measuring less than 1.5 mm thick on both sides, alongside a Major defect concerning the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers failing to prevent the ingress of dirt on both sides, and a Minor defect for both headlamp lenses being slightly defective. Advisories raised at the same time noted rear brake pads wearing thin on both sides, a slightly noisy nearside rear wheel bearing, and general under-vehicle corrosion. Reviewing the broader MOT history from 2022 onwards, the maintenance trend shows a clear pattern of brake-related deterioration, with previous failures involving a leaking offside front upper hydraulic brake cylinder and significantly low brake fluid in early 2023, followed by further brake component wear in 2026. This suggests the braking system has been a recurring area of concern and warrants close scrutiny during any prospective purchase. The recorded mileage of 98,097 miles on a 2009 Mazda 5 equates to an average of approximately 5,770 miles per year over its seventeen-year life, which is considerably below typical annual usage figures and indicates either genuinely light use or extended periods of standing. The gap between the February 2024 and April 2025 tests, alongside the relatively consistent annual mileages, suggests the vehicle has been used fairly regularly in recent years rather than left dormant, which is positive from a corrosion and component seizing perspective. That said, the low overall mileage means age-related degradation of components such as rubber bushes, seals, drive shaft boots, and brake hydraulic components can still progress independently of distance covered, a factor clearly evidenced by the split CV boot failure in 2024 and the leaking brake cylinder in 2023. The advisories regarding deteriorated registration plate and slightly damaged offside rear tyre from 2024 should also be considered alongside the mileage context. Given the recurring brake-related defects and advisories across multiple test cycles, particular attention should be paid to the entire braking system during a physical examination and test drive. The buyer should verify the thickness and condition of all four brake pads and discs, confirm there are no hydraulic fluid leaks from the master cylinder, wheel cylinders, or caliper seals, and check the brake fluid itself for colour and moisture content, as fluid should ideally be replaced every two years regardless of mileage. The noisy nearside rear wheel bearing advisory suggests early stage wear, and on a test drive the buyer should listen for a humming or droning noise that varies with road speed, particularly when cornering, as this would indicate progressive bearing failure. Under load braking from higher speeds, any vibration through the steering wheel or pedal would suggest disc warping, a common issue on vehicles that have stood unused or undergone heavy stop-start use. Beyond the braking system, the advisories and failures relating to anti-roll bar linkage dust covers, CV boot integrity, and general under-vehicle corrosion point towards a vehicle now entering a phase where structural and chassis components require careful inspection. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any clunking or rattling from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which may indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links or bushes, and pay attention to any clicking or vibration through the steering under full lock, which could suggest CV joint wear following the 2024 boot failure. Given the seventeen-year age of the vehicle regardless of its modest mileage, it is essential to inspect all rubber components including tyres for sidewall perishing and cracking, check the condition of the 12V battery which typically lasts five to seven years, and examine coolant and automatic transmission fluid condition if applicable, as these degrade with time rather than use. A thorough under-vehicle inspection on a ramp is strongly recommended to assess the extent of the general corrosion noted in the latest advisory and to verify the integrity of mounting points, exhaust hangers, and structural members before committing to purchase.