2015 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · L29 THE

The most recent MOT, carried out on 23 January 2026, was passed but returned several advisories concerning rear‑disc condition, front‑pad wear, a nearside track‑rod end ball‑joint with slight play, a damaged dust cover and a minor oil leak. Earlier in the same month the vehicle failed due to an inoperative engine MIL and the same brake and ball‑joint issues, and a similar failure occurred in January 2023 when the rear pads were dangerously thin. The pattern shows a generally stable trend – the major MIL fault has been cleared enough to pass, yet the recurring wear items and oil leak indicate that maintenance has been reactive rather than proactive and that some components are approaching the end of their service life. At 99 427 miles recorded for a 2015 model, the car averages roughly 9 000 miles per annum, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear observed is consistent with steady, moderate use. This mileage level places the drivetrain, suspension bushings and CV joints in the mid‑life wear band, meaning that consumables such as brake discs, pads and tyres will be nearing the point where replacement is likely required if not already addressed. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the braking system. The rear disc is reported as worn, pitted or scored and, while not yet deemed unsafe, will soon require resurfacing or replacement; the front pads are already thin and the rear pads were flagged as dangerously low in 2023, so a thorough visual inspection of pad thickness and disc surface is essential. On a test drive listen for any groaning or pulsation when applying the brakes, and feel for any pedal sponginess that could indicate uneven wear or fluid contamination. The nearside track‑rod end ball‑joint with slight play should be checked for excessive movement when the steering wheel is rocked at full lock; any clunk or knock from the front suspension could signal that the joint is close to failure and will need replacement along with the damaged dust cover to prevent dirt ingress. The intermittent oil leak, although classified as minor, should be traced – look for fresh oil around the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or front main seal, and verify that the leak is not worsening, as a progressive leak can lead to low oil level, overheating or engine damage. Finally, the recurring engine MIL fault, though cleared for the latest pass, warrants a diagnostic scan to confirm that the underlying sensor or electronic issue has been fully resolved and will not re‑trigger a warning light during normal operation. Beyond the specific MOT items, a vehicle of this age should be inspected for age‑related deterioration. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or loss of tread even if the tread depth appears acceptable, as tyres older than six years can fail irrespective of mileage. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, especially if the car has spent periods standing still, and consider a load test. Inspect the under‑tray and exhaust for rust or corrosion that could affect structural integrity, and verify that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the recommended service intervals – fluid colour and clarity are good visual indicators. Confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (as applicable to the CX‑5’s engine), and that any previous brake or suspension work is documented. A comprehensive test drive should include listening for any abnormal engine noises, checking for smooth gear changes, ensuring the steering feels precise without vibration, and confirming that no warning lights illuminate, particularly the MIL, which would indicate unresolved electronic faults.