2003 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · KB03 HWS

The most recent MOT on 2023-05-23 recorded a pass with three minor issues: a defective front windscreen wiper blade, nearside front service brake requirements barely met, and corrosion on the offside rear sill. These suggest ongoing maintenance needs but no immediate safety risks. However, the vehicle’s history reveals recurring concerns about braking systems, corrosion, and structural integrity. A pattern of brake-related defects emerges, including imbalanced front brakes (2021), leaking brake valves (2021), and worn or pitted brake discs (2022). These issues indicate potential neglect or gradual wear in the braking system, which is critical for safety. Corrosion has also been consistently noted, particularly in structural areas like the sill (2023, 2021) and suspension components (2020), raising concerns about long-term durability. The trend shows mixed signals. While the 2023 MOT was a pass, earlier failures (2021, 2020) highlight more severe issues, suggesting possible improvements in maintenance but also lingering risks. The low mileage of 117,438 miles over 23 years (5,106 miles annually) implies lighter use or periods of inactivity, which can accelerate corrosion and component degradation. This mileage may not reflect typical wear from regular driving, making hidden issues harder to assess.