2015 Mazda 5 1.6L Diesel · LB15 FSX

The 2015 Mazda 5 most recently passed its MOT test on 29 June 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents a positive and stable outcome at the present moment. Reviewing the broader DVSA history, the vehicle has accumulated a number of advisories and a prior failure in mid-2025, but the two most recent tests (2025 and 2026) both passed without comment, suggesting that remedial work was carried out and that maintenance has stabilised. Earlier in 2025 there was a failure for severely reduced headlamp output due to product contamination on both front lenses, ineffective front wiper operation, thin front brake pads, and slight play in the nearside rear anti-roll bar ball joint. The front brake pad advisory ties into an earlier pattern seen in 2022 when both front discs and both rear brake pads were flagged at dangerous wear levels, and tyres on the front axle were recorded as below the legal 1.6mm tread depth at the same time. Although the vehicle is currently passing cleanly, the recurring focus on braking components, tyres, and front-end wear items indicates that these remain the primary areas to monitor. With 101,148 miles recorded over approximately 11 years, the Mazda 5 is averaging around 9,195 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a family vehicle of this age and segment. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged standing, which is positive in terms of avoiding issues such as seized brake calipers, severe underbody corrosion, and 12V battery degradation. However, the mileage is substantial for an eleven year old car, so the mechanical wear on suspension, engine, transmission, and ancillary components will be more pronounced than on a lower mileage example. Prospective buyers should expect mid-life wear items such as ageing suspension bushes, shock absorbers, coil springs, exhaust mountings, and possibly clutch wear to be approaching or requiring attention in the near future. Given the recurring braking and tyre advisories seen in 2022 and 2025, particular attention should be paid to the condition and operation of the braking system during inspection and test drive. Listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsation through the brake pedal or steering wheel when pulling away, which could indicate worn pads or warped or corroded brake discs. The front discs were previously flagged as worn but not excessively, so inspect both front discs for a sharp lip around the outer edge and check for any roughness or shudder under heavy braking. The 2022 dangerous failure for rear brake pads under 1.5mm suggests rear calipers or handbrake mechanism should be checked for correct operation and any binding. The 2025 advisory concerning slight play in the nearside rear anti-roll bar ball joint indicates possible deterioration of the rear anti-roll bar linkages, so on a test drive listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over undulating surfaces or when cornering, and have the anti-roll bar drop links and bushes physically inspected for free play. The earlier front tyre wear advisory and dangerous tread depth failure also warrant a careful check of all four tyres for uneven wear patterns, which can point to suspension misalignment, worn bushes, or tracking issues. Beyond the recorded MOT findings, the age and mileage of this Mazda 5 make several calendar-based service items worth verifying before purchase. Ensure that the service book is fully stamped and that the cambelt or timing chain replacement history is documented, along with evidence of recent coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid changes, as these fluids degrade with time regardless of mileage. Inspect all tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is common on older vehicles, and verify that all tyres are of matching type and reasonably even tread depth. Examine the underside of the vehicle, paying particular attention to the sills, wheel arches, suspension components, and exhaust system for any corrosion, as road salt exposure over eleven years can take its toll. Finally, check that all bulbs, including the registration plate lamps that were previously flagged as inoperative, are functioning, and confirm that the front wipers and washer system operate correctly, as the 2025 failure for ineffective wiper operation suggests previous issues in this area. A thorough test drive covering a mix of town and higher speed roads, including some uneven surfaces to expose any suspension noise, will help confirm whether the recent pass is genuinely representative of the vehicle's overall condition.