2011 Mazda 5 2.0L Diesel · LC61 VHK

A pattern of suspension and chassis failures has emerged in the most recent testing cycles, contrasting with a previously clean record. While the vehicle passed its latest test on 17 October 2025, this followed a failure the previous day involving excessively worn offside front suspension ball joints and perished dust covers on both front anti-roll bar ball joints. This follows a similar trend from October 2024, where the vehicle failed due to a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber and an insecure exhaust silencer. The recorded mileage of 75,199 miles is low for a fifteen year old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,013 miles per year. Such a low annual accumulation suggests the vehicle has seen lighter than average use or has experienced periods of standing. Mechanically, while this reduces the overall wear on the engine and gearbox, it often correlates with the premature perishing of rubber components, as evidenced by the recent failures of suspension dust covers and shock absorber seals. During a test drive, specific attention should be paid to the front suspension and steering geometry. Listen for knocking or clicking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring, which could indicate that the recently replaced ball joints or anti-roll bar components are not performing correctly. The rear suspension should be assessed for excessive oscillation or a floating sensation, ensuring the previously leaking nearside rear shock absorber has been properly addressed. Further inspection should focus on the exhaust system to ensure the silencer is now securely mounted and free from vibration. Although front brake pads were noted as wearing thin in 2022, the current condition of the braking system should be verified through a feel for pedal judder or noise during deceleration. Finally, the current state of the windscreen wipers and the deterioration of the rear registration plate should be noted as these remain outstanding advisories from the October 2025 test.