2007 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · KB07 DMU

The most recent MOT on 18 November 2025 recorded a Pass, and the preceding three annual tests (2024, 2023 and 2022) were also passes with no recorded defects. The lone failure logged on 17 November 2025 shows no fault items and is almost certainly an administrative anomaly rather than a mechanical issue. Taken together the MOT history demonstrates a stable maintenance pattern with no deterioration evident in the recorded inspections. At 109,600 miles the 2007 Mazda 3 averages roughly 5,800 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical UK usage rate for a vehicle of this age. The low annual mileage suggests the car has been driven lightly, possibly spending extended periods stationary. Light use generally reduces wear on engine, transmission and brake components, but prolonged inactivity can accelerate rubber hardening in tyres, seals, and hoses, and can promote surface corrosion on suspension joints, exhaust, and under‑body panels. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the condition of the tyres: check tread depth, sidewall cracking, and any signs of perishing that can occur even with low mileage if the car has sat for long stretches. Examine the suspension for any play or noise in the front lower arms, bushings and coil springs, looking for rusted mounting points or deteriorated rubber that could cause clunking over bumps. Verify the state of the braking system – ensure the discs are free of deep rust, the pads have adequate thickness, and the calipers move smoothly without binding, as standing can cause pistons to seize and lead to shudder or uneven wear. Because the vehicle is approaching two decades old, time‑based servicing is as important as mileage‑based work. Confirm that the timing belt (if fitted) has been replaced around the 100‑k‑mile mark, as failure would be catastrophic. Inspect the battery for sulfation and test its cranking voltage, especially if the car has been stored for months at a time. Drain and replace the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil if service records are missing or if the fluids appear discoloured, since these fluids degrade with age regardless of distance travelled. Finally, look for any oil, coolant or power‑steering leaks, and listen for abnormal noises on a short test drive – rattles from the exhaust, vibrations from the drivetrain or any hesitation under acceleration can indicate wear that is not captured by the MOT record.