2009 Mazda MX-5 2.0L Petrol · LL58 UAV

Recurring tyre defects and suspension component wear define the mechanical profile of this vehicle, with the most recent test on 20 February 2026 resulting in a failure due to a near-side rear tyre with a cut reaching the cords. While the vehicle passed its subsequent retest, the record shows a consistent pattern of tyre-related advisories and failures dating back to 2023, alongside persistent issues with anti-roll bar linkage ball joints and shock absorber oil misting. The trend suggests a focus on addressing immediate safety failures, but the underlying advisories regarding suspension damping and steering linkages have remained present across multiple testing cycles. The recorded mileage of 62,040 miles over approximately 17 years represents a low annual average of roughly 3,649 miles. This usage pattern indicates the vehicle has been driven significantly less than the UK average, which can mean less frequent mechanical movement of components. While lower mileage often implies less wear on the drivetrain, such low annual accumulation can sometimes lead to the degradation of rubber components and seals through age rather than friction, as evidenced by the repeated advisories for shock absorber misting and tyre sidewall damage. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the suspension and damping systems during a test drive. The 2026 MOT recorded light oil misting on both near-side and off-side rear shock absorbers, a condition that has been noted previously. You should listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the internal seals have failed further and the dampers are no longer providing effective rebound control. Additionally, the history of play in the anti-roll bar linkage ball joints warrants a physical check for any wandering or imprecise steering feel or audible rattling from the front or rear suspension during low-speed manoeuvres. Tyre condition and braking performance also require scrutiny. Given the frequent advisories for cuts, uneven wear, and tyres reaching legal limits, it is essential to inspect the current tread depth and sidewall integrity of all four tyres to ensure they are not nearing the limits seen in recent tests. Furthermore, the 2022 advisory regarding a binding off-side front service brake should be investigated by feeling for any uneven deceleration or a pulling sensation to one side when applying the brakes, or checking for excessive heat buildup in that specific wheel after a period of driving.