2004 Mazda 3 1.3L Petrol · JB54 ARB

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, having passed the most recent MOT on 10 October 2022 at 100,529 miles with no defects recorded. The trend in maintenance appears to have stabilised or improved compared with the failed test on 7 October 2022, where significant corrosion and lighting faults were flagged. The absence of defects in the latest test suggests that remedial work has been carried out, though the record still indicates a history of structural corrosion. The mileage pattern shows a steady accumulation of roughly 4,500 to 7,000 miles per year over the past decade, consistent with the vehicle’s age. From 54,623 miles in October 2013 to 100,529 miles in October 2022, the average annual mileage is 4,570 miles, which is low for a 22‑year‑old car. There are no abrupt spikes or gaps; each annual test follows the previous one by approximately one year, indicating regular use rather than long periods of storage. A prospective buyer should examine the suspension mounting points, particularly the offside front and rear, where earlier tests recorded excessive corrosion that could compromise structural integrity. Inspect the rubber bushings of the front suspension arms for deterioration, the lower ball joints for play, and the shock absorbers for oil misting. Tyre tread depth should be checked against the legal limit, as several tests recorded wear close to the minimum. Brake pads should be inspected for thickness, as thin pads were noted in multiple years. Lighting components—headlamps, registration plate lamps, and wipers—have repeatedly failed, so verify their operation and the condition of the wiper fluid system. Although the vehicle has passed the latest MOT, the historical pattern of corrosion and wear suggests that hidden damage may persist. A detailed mechanical inspection focusing on the suspension mounting points, bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, and overall rust condition is advisable. Confirm that any remedial work performed after the 2022 October failures has been completed to a satisfactory standard before purchase.