2004 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · HJ54 XRG

The Mazda MX-5 presents a stable and clean roadworthiness record over the past three years, with the most recent MOT on 27 March 2026 at 60,513 miles passing without any defects. This consistency extends back to the 2024 and 2023 tests, all of which were also passed with no advisories or failures recorded—an unusual level of compliance for a vehicle of this age and mileage. The single failed test on 16 March 2023 at 47,851 miles appears to be an administrative error, as no defects were listed, suggesting a data anomaly rather than a mechanical issue. The absence of recurring advisories or defects implies either meticulous maintenance by previous owners or, more likely, a vehicle that has been stored or used very lightly, avoiding the typical wear patterns seen in higher-mileage examples. At 60,513 miles over 22 years, this MX-5 has accumulated just 2,751 miles annually—a figure well below the average for its class. The mileage gaps are striking: between the 2023 and 2024 tests, only 413 miles were added over a full year, while the 2024-2025 interval saw 5,039 miles covered in 12 months, still modest by comparison. Such low mileage reduces the likelihood of high-wear issues in suspension components, brake systems, or drivetrain, but it also raises questions about whether the car has been stored for extended periods, which can introduce its own problems—particularly with rubber seals, fluids, and battery health. The lack of mileage accumulation suggests the vehicle may not have been driven regularly, which could mask latent issues that only emerge under consistent use. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should still conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection, focusing on components that are prone to long-term degradation even with low mileage. Pay particular attention to the suspension—check for degraded bushes, worn coil springs, or any signs of corrosion in the control arms or subframe mounts. The brake system should be scrutinised for binding calipers, uneven disc wear, or seized components, as these can develop silently in a vehicle that isn’t driven frequently. Exhaust emissions may also warrant closer inspection, as older catalytic converters can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, inspect the underbody and wheel arches for structural corrosion, especially around the sills and rear trailing arms, as rust can compromise safety without affecting drivability. While the MOT record is reassuring, these areas are critical for long-term reliability.