2016 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · LO66 DLU

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Mazda CX-5 recorded a passing result on 2026-06-10, with a single advisory pertaining to offside rear tyre wear that appears to be uneven and potentially compromised, likely due to either excessive lateral forces or a misaligned wheel assembly. While the latest inspection is clean of critical failures, the historical pattern reveals a recurring issue with rear brake pad thickness, culminating in a dangerous failure in 2023-09-14 where the pads were reduced to below the minimum legal 1.5 mm. This suggests a maintenance lapse or insufficient attention to brake system monitoring, particularly given the consistent advisories of thin pads in preceding MOTs. The front brake pads also showed signs of wear in 2022-08-19, indicating a broader brake system degradation that warrants proactive intervention. Overall, the maintenance trend is neither improving nor stable; rather, it reflects a failure to address critical wear issues promptly, with the most recent test highlighting a persistent tyre-related advisory that may escalate if ignored. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 89,163 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate usage rate of approximately 8,916 miles per year, which is consistent with the typical annual mileage for a ten-year-old CX-5. Such mileage suggests a vehicle that has been driven regularly but not excessively, which could imply lighter operational demands or periods of inactivity. However, lower-than-expected mileage could also indicate prolonged standing, which is particularly concerning for components like brakes, suspension, and fluids that degrade over time when stationary. For example, brake discs and pads can corrode or bind if not used, leading to reduced braking efficiency or even failure to meet legal standards. Similarly, suspension components and seals may suffer from stagnant lubrication, accelerating wear in the long term. The absence of significant mileage spikes does not mitigate the risk of calendar-based degradation, so a thorough inspection of both active and stationary components is essential. Given the recurring advisories and prior MOT failures, the buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the braking system, focusing on the rear brake pads and discs. The 2023 failure where pads were below 1.5 mm thickness indicates that the vehicle has already reached a critical state, and further wear will compromise stopping performance. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or soft feel, or a grinding noise when applying brakes, which could signal pad-to-disc contact or warping. Inspect the rear brake pads visually for remaining thickness—if they are below 3 mm, they should be replaced immediately to prevent dangerous braking failure. Additionally, check for corrosion or binding on the rear brake discs, which may indicate prolonged standing or poor lubrication. If the pads have been recently replaced, verify that the brake fluid level is correct and that there are no leaks from the calipers or master cylinder. Beyond the brakes, the offside rear tyre advisory from the 2026 MOT test demands immediate attention. Uneven wear patterns, such as cracking or perishing at the sidewall, suggest either underinflation, excessive load, or a misaligned wheel. On a test drive, check for a pulling sensation to one side, uneven tyre noise, or excessive vibration at higher speeds. Visually inspect the tyre for cracks, bulges, or excessive tread depth loss, as these can compromise structural integrity. If the tyre is deemed unsafe, it should be replaced without delay, as sidewall damage can lead to sudden failure. For the rest of the vehicle, given the moderate mileage and age, the buyer should also verify the condition of the suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, for signs of wear or leaks. Finally, consider a battery health check, as prolonged inactivity can drain the 12V system, and check for fluid levels in the engine bay, transmission, and cooling systems, as these degrade over time even with regular use. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, a full service check, including fluid top-ups and component inspections, is strongly recommended.