2016 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · LL65 UFD

The most recent MOT test on 2026-05-19 resulted in a clean pass, but the vehicle’s overall MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant cautious consideration. While the past two years have seen two consecutive clean passes, the vehicle failed twice in the preceding two years, with the most recent failure on 2024-05-17 highlighting critical defects such as nearside front tyre tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm and offside front tyre wear close to the legal limit. Additionally, the 2026-05-18 failure included a major issue of corroded offside rear brake pipe, which could indicate underlying structural or fluid-related degradation in the braking system. These recurring failures suggest either a history of neglect in addressing wear and tear or underlying mechanical issues that have persisted despite previous servicing. The presence of advisories, such as the nail in the offside front tyre from 2021 and the tyre pressure warning light, further implies that the vehicle has not been subject to routine maintenance to prevent minor issues from escalating. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 107,222 miles at 10 years old reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,722 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for its age. However, the lack of a service history or clear documentation of annual mileage accumulation makes it difficult to determine whether the vehicle has been driven under heavy or light conditions. Higher mileage over a decade can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyres, while prolonged periods of inactivity may lead to standing corrosion in the brake system, fluid degradation in the cooling and lubrication circuits, and potential tyre perishing from exposure to the elements. The presence of a tyre pressure warning light and a nail in the tyre also suggests that the vehicle may have been driven in conditions that caused uneven wear or punctures, further emphasising the need for a thorough inspection of tyre integrity and alignment. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the braking system, tyres, and suspension, given the recurring MOT issues. Begin with a visual and functional inspection of the offside rear brake pipe for signs of corrosion or leaks, as the 2026-05-18 failure indicates this is a persistent concern. Listen for uneven braking performance, particularly when applying the offside rear brake, and check for vibrations or shuddering during deceleration, which could signal warped discs or binding calipers. The nearside front tyre failure highlights the importance of verifying tread depth and condition—ensure the remaining tread is evenly distributed and not worn on the edges, as this may indicate misalignment or poor wheel balance. Additionally, inspect the nearside front position lamp for functionality and ensure the headlamp aim is correctly adjusted, as the 2026-05-18 failure indicates this was a recurring issue. Beyond the MOT-related concerns, conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity and fluid levels. Check for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the offside rear brake components, exhaust system, and underbody, as corrosion can compromise the vehicle’s roadworthiness and safety. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to age-related degradation. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to sulphation or poor connections, and test the charging system to ensure it holds a charge. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider scheduling a professional service to replace fluids such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time even with regular use. Ensure the service book is up to date, as this will provide a record of maintenance history and help identify any missed servicing intervals. If possible, obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to assess the vehicle’s mechanical condition and address any hidden issues before purchase.