2010 Mazda MX5 1.8L Petrol · LD10 YTS

This 2010 Mazda MX-5 passed its most recent MOT in March 2026 at 93,944 miles, but only after a failed attempt at the same mileage due to a headlamp aim issue. That defect was straightforward to correct and does not signal deeper mechanical trouble. The vehicle's mileage of roughly 5,872 miles per year is notably low for a 16-year-old car. This pattern suggests either light, occasional use or extended periods of standing. Either scenario carries distinct implications: lighter use can mean less wear on brakes, suspension, and the drivetrain, but prolonged inactivity can allow seals to dry, fuel systems to gum, and corrosion to take hold, particularly on a vehicle with no recorded undersealing work visible in the MOT notes. Looking back across the MOT history, the most significant finding is recorded in February 2023: both rear shock absorbers showed light misting of oil. This indicates early wear in the dampers, a component that deteriorates progressively. The fact that no further advisories or defects related to suspension have been logged since then—across three subsequent passes—suggests either the misting stabilised at that point or the issue was not re-examined. On a vehicle of this age, rear damper seals are a common wear item, and light oil weeping can worsen over time, eventually affecting ride and handling. The remaining advisory items from 2023 (wiper blade and a deteriorated registration plate) were minor and correctable, and have not recurred.