2014 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · KV64 FRX

A pattern of chronic rear suspension wear and progressive exhaust corrosion defines the mechanical trajectory of this twelve-year-old Mazda CX-5, with eight recorded MOT tests stretching back to 2019 all returning pass certificates but accumulating a notable cluster of advisories on the rear axle. The most recent test on 26 August 2026 passed, yet flagged light oil misting on both rear shock absorbers, marking the first time nearside rear shock misting has appeared alongside a repeat advisory on the offside unit that was first noted in 2024. Exhaust corrosion has been logged as an advisory on four separate occasions since 2020, suggesting the system is gradually deteriorating rather than holding steady. Minor windscreen stone chipping has been a near-annual observation across six of the eight tests, though none have been judged to obstruct the driver's view. Recorded mileage of 79,230 miles over twelve years equates to approximately 6,600 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and category. There are no extended testing gaps and no sudden mileage jumps between consecutive tests, the readings progressing steadily from the earliest entry through to the latest figure, which points to consistent rather than intermittent use. At this accumulation rate, consumable wear on suspension components, brake friction materials, and drivetrain mountings would be expected to be moderately progressed but not extreme, though the rear axle advisories suggest some components are nearing or past mid-life condition. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection items are the rear suspension and exhaust system. With both rear shock absorbers now showing oil misting and the offside rear coil spring flagged for corrosion in 2023, the dampers should be physically inspected for any heavier oil weep down the body or piston rod, and the coil spring examined for surface pitting or loss of material that could compromise ride height. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the rear over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, feel for any wallowing or excessive body roll through corners that might indicate worn dampers, and pay attention to whether the rear settles or floats excessively after compression. The exhaust should be raised on a ramp or examined underneath for perforation, flaking, or separated joints, particularly around the box sections and mounting hangers, as advisories logged four times over six years typically indicate a system approaching the point of requiring replacement. Beyond the flagged items, a thorough pre-purchase check should include a close look at the general underside condition given the age and the rear axle corrosion history, with particular attention to subframe mounting points, brake pipes, and fuel lines for any surface rust. The brake discs and pads should be inspected for wear lipping and remaining friction material thickness, and a road test should confirm firm pedal feel without judder under heavy braking. Steering should be checked for any vagueness or clonking over bumps, which on a CX-5 of this mileage could indicate worn front drop links or anti-roll bar bushes. Given the steady usage pattern and absence of any failures across the recorded history, the vehicle presents a known maintenance profile rather than an unknown mechanical risk, though the rear suspension and exhaust items flagged should be costed into any purchase decision.