2004 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · LC04 DWD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 22 May 2026 with no defects recorded, indicating a positive upward trend in its mechanical presentation. Looking back through the historical data, the maintenance profile shows a period of instability between 2020 and 2023, characterized by recurring advisories regarding brake component degradation and tyre wear. However, the absence of any advisories or failures in the two most recent tests suggests that the previous issues, specifically the binding brakes and pitted discs, have been addressed and the vehicle is currently in a stable state of compliance. With a recorded mileage of 38,580 over approximately 22 years, this Mazda MX-5 has been driven at an exceptionally low rate of roughly 1,754 miles per year. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, such infrequent usage carries its own set of risks for a vehicle of this age. Long periods of inactivity can lead to the degradation of rubber components, the settling of fluids, and the development of corrosion on non-moving parts. The historical record of binding brakes and pitted discs is consistent with a vehicle that may sit stationary for extended periods, allowing moisture to settle on the brake discs and causing calipers to seize or stick. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the braking system to ensure the previous issues with binding and pitting have been fully resolved. Listen for any scraping sounds or feel for a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, which could indicate uneven disc surfaces or warped rotors. Check for any pulling to one side when braking, which may suggest a sticking caliper. Given the history of uneven tyre wear on the offside rear, inspect the tread patterns across all four tyres to ensure they are wearing evenly; unevenness can indicate underlying suspension issues such as worn bushes or misaligned geometry. Because this is a low-mileage, older vehicle, you should perform a thorough physical inspection of all rubber elements. Check the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, as tyres can become unsafe due to age even if they have significant tread remaining. Inspect the underside of the car for signs of corrosion, particularly on the exhaust system and suspension mounting points, which can occur when a car is not driven regularly enough to clear moisture. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as oil changes, coolant flushes, and brake fluid replacements, has been carried out according to the calendar rather than just by mileage, as fluid hygroscopy and oil oxidation are significant concerns for vehicles with such low annual usage.