2013 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · FV13 LCK

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history shows a trend of reactive rather than proactive care. While it passed its most recent test on 19 May 2026 at 68,078 miles, this followed a significant failure just one day prior. The failure revealed multiple critical issues, including exposed cords on a rear tyre and deteriorated suspension dust covers, indicating that essential components are only being addressed once they reach the point of legal failure. At 68,078 miles, this thirteen-year-old Mazda reflects a low average of approximately 5,237 miles per year. The usage pattern appears consistent, with roughly 3,300 miles driven between May 2025 and May 2026. This low mileage suggests less mechanical wear on the drivetrain and engine, but infrequent use often leads to the accelerated degradation of rubber components and dry corrosion, which aligns with the recent failures of ball joints and suspension-related dust covers. A buyer must conduct a focused inspection of the rear suspension geometry and braking system. The recurring failure of the ball joint dust covers and anti-roll bar linkages in the May 2026 test suggests the rubber components are reaching the end of their service life due to age rather than distance. Additionally, the 2024 report of a binding nearside front brake requires a physical check for caliper seized or uneven disc wear to ensure the issue has not returned. Given the age of the vehicle, a thorough underside check is vital, as low mileage vehicles often mask structural corrosion in hidden mounting points.