2013 Mazda 5 2.0L Petrol · LO13 CWM

The 2013 Mazda 5 currently holds a valid MOT certificate, having passed the most recent test on 20 May 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded against the vehicle. It is worth noting that the same date also shows a failure entry, which suggests the vehicle was presented, failed on a minor item, was rectified immediately, and was then re-presented and passed on the same day. While the overall record appears stable with two consecutive pass certificates in 2023 and 2025, the absence of any advisory notes is not necessarily a positive indicator in isolation. A completely clean MOT history on a thirteen-year-old vehicle can sometimes reflect either excellent maintenance or, occasionally, testing stations that do not record borderline advisories. Buyers should treat the clean record as a reasonable baseline but should not rely upon it as definitive proof of mechanical perfection. With 79,944 miles recorded over approximately thirteen years, this Mazda 5 has averaged around 6,150 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and category. This moderate annual usage implies consistent running rather than long periods of standing or exceptionally hard use, which is generally favourable for mechanical longevity. There are no obvious mileage gaps or unusually rapid accumulation between the recorded MOT tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular service. However, buyers should still verify the mileage against the service book and any available V5C documentation to ensure continuity, as mileage discrepancies can occasionally arise on family vehicles that have changed hands multiple times. Given the absence of recorded defects, the inspection focus should shift towards age- and mileage-related wear that an MOT test may not fully capture. At thirteen years old, particular attention should be paid to the tyres, as even those with adequate tread depth may suffer from sidewall perishing or cracking due to age-related rubber degradation. Brake discs and calipers on vehicles of this age can also suffer from corrosion, particularly on the inboard faces of the discs or from seized slider mechanisms, leading to uneven pad wear or brake bind. During a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over uneven road surfaces, as worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and lower arm bushes are common failure points on Mazda vehicles of this era, and check for any pulling to one side or uneven steering response that may indicate tracking or suspension geometry issues. Beyond the mechanical consumables, time-based servicing items warrant close scrutiny. The 12-volt battery should be tested for its state of health, as batteries typically require replacement every five to six years regardless of mileage, and a weak battery can cause erratic electrical behaviour. Engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) all degrade with calendar age rather than purely mileage, so it is prudent to verify when these were last changed and inspect the fluid condition directly where possible. Additionally, examine the underside and wheel arches for any signs of corrosion, as Mazda vehicles of this generation can be prone to surface rust on suspension components and underbody shielding. Finally, confirm the operation of all electrical functions including the distinctive sliding rear doors, tailgate, climate control, and infotainment system, as electrical faults and failed motors on the rear door mechanisms are known issues that would not necessarily be flagged during an MOT inspection.