2005 Mazda 6 2.0L Petrol · FP05 AMK

The most recent MOT test on 18 March 2026, at 125,735 miles, reveals a vehicle that passed but carried multiple advisories and a single fail—windscreen washer jets—suggesting a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than critical safety risks. The binding brakes (both rear and one front) and corroded sub-frame and suspension components indicate long-term neglect, though none of these failures were severe enough to prevent passing. The parking brake’s 50% efficiency and the excessively worn anti-roll bar ball joint are particularly concerning, as they point to cumulative wear that hasn’t been addressed. While the structural integrity of the body remains stable despite rear corrosion, the recurring advisories on brakes and suspension imply the owner has prioritised minor issues over proactive servicing. The latest pass suggests recent attention to aesthetics (headlamp lenses) but no meaningful mechanical intervention. The recorded mileage of 125,735 miles over 21 years equates to approximately 6,000 miles annually, a figure that, while low, aligns with a vehicle kept in light use or stored intermittently. The most notable gap is between the 2024 and 2025 tests, where mileage jumped from 116,474 to 124,340—a 7,866-mile increase in a year—before another 1,395 miles in 2025–2026. This suggests either a period of infrequent use followed by sporadic driving or a lack of consistent monitoring. The front tyre wear recorded in 2024 (edge wear) hints at underinflation or alignment issues, though no further mention of this appears in later tests. The absence of MOT failures for emissions or exhaust suggests the engine remains functional, but the low mileage does not guarantee this will persist without maintenance. A buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the rear brakes, which have been flagged for binding in two consecutive tests, and the anti-roll bar linkage, which failed for excessive wear in 2026. The corroded rear sub-frame and suspension arm, while not yet structurally compromised, warrant closer examination for hidden deterioration, particularly around welds and mounting points. The parking brake’s reduced efficiency demands verification—this could indicate cable stretch or drum/disc wear that hasn’t been addressed. Tyre conditions should be checked for uneven wear, especially front edges, and the washer jets should be tested for proper function. The registration plate’s deterioration, though not critical, signals long-term exposure to elements, so the mounting and lighting should be inspected for security and clarity. No major safety defects are imminent, but the pattern of advisories suggests the vehicle has been operated with minimal upkeep.