2006 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · KH06 EXR

The most recent MOT on 2026-04-21 showed it passed with various underside corrosion, but a prior failure on 2026-04-16 revealed all four tyres were perishing or damaged, including bulges from structural separation. This indicates significant tyre wear or age-related degradation, despite the vehicle’s low mileage. The failure highlights a critical safety risk, as compromised tyres can lead to sudden failure during use. Recurring corrosion issues have been documented since 2023, including rust on the rear sub-frame, suspension arms, and underbody components. While these were described as “not seriously weakened,” persistent corrosion suggests ongoing exposure to moisture or poor maintenance. The 2024 MOT also noted slight play in the offside rear anti-roll bar, indicating potential suspension wear that could affect handling. The trend shows no clear improvement in corrosion or suspension issues, though the 2026 MOT did not repeat the anti-roll bar defect. However, the tyre failure and continued corrosion imply the vehicle’s condition remains vulnerable to environmental and mechanical stress. The low mileage (around 3,062 miles per year) may suggest infrequent use or periods of inactivity, which can accelerate rust and rubber component aging. The vehicle’s age and mileage combination raises concerns about hidden wear in non-structural components.