2017 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · LO66 YZL

The 2017 Mazda 6 presents a mixed mechanical picture where the bulk of the record remains clean but recurs with a pattern of recurring advisories rather than outright failures. The two most recent MOT tests have both cleared successfully, with the February 2025 examination recording no defects at all, suggesting the underlying drivetrain has remained functional between assessments. However, the 2023 test introduced three advisories—an offside rear tyre showing slight damage, and worn lower suspension arm pins and inner back bushes across both front and side positions—indicating progressive deterioration in the suspension system that was not present in earlier years. These recurring warnings cluster around the same physical locations, pointing toward consistent stress or fatigue in the suspension geometry rather than isolated incidents. The mileage figure of 133,706 miles combined with the nine-year ownership period yields an average annual accumulation of approximately 14,856 miles, which stands out as unusually high for a vehicle of this model and age. Such a rapid rate of mileage gain suggests either heavy daily use, extended periods of idling followed by short trips, or potential storage patterns that may have masked earlier mechanical degradation. When viewed alongside the 2023 suspension advisories, the elevated usage profile becomes mechanically significant because suspension components such as control arms, bushings, and subframe fasteners are subjected to continuous dynamic loads; the combination of high total mileage and persistent suspension wear creates a scenario where critical clearances could have been compromised before the next MOT was completed. The specific components flagged in the 2023 and 2022 records demand particular attention during a test drive. The offside rear tyre damage should be verified visually and felt when the vehicle is loaded; a slight irregularity or uneven contact patch indicates possible alignment drift or material fatigue that could affect handling and braking stability. The worn lower suspension arm pins and inner back bushes manifest as subtle play or knocking when the vehicle moves through bumps or accelerates from stops—these should be checked by gently rocking the wheel and listening for any clunking noises that suggest bushing deformation or pin loosening. Additionally, given the high mileage burden, inspecting the subframe for rust or corrosion is prudent, as prolonged exposure to road salt and repeated flexing from worn suspension components can accelerate structural decay even when visible damage appears minimal. For a prospective buyer, the safest approach involves confirming that the rear tyres are fully intact with proper tread depth and that the suspension components identified in the 2023 advisory have been inspected for complete replacement or reinstatement of original specifications. A thorough visual and tactile check of the front and side lower suspension arm pins and inner back bushes is essential, paying particular attention to any signs of cracking, flattening, or excessive play that might indicate remaining wear despite the current pass status. Given the high mileage accumulated, it would also be wise to examine the subframe for rust penetration at the mounting points and to ensure that all related hardware (bolts, nuts, bushings) matches the original specification rather than showing signs of stretching or elongation. While the most recent MOT was clean, the cumulative effect of the repeated advisories and the unusually rapid mileage increase warrants treating this vehicle as having already incurred measurable mechanical wear that will require monitoring and potentially additional investment before it reaches safe operating limits.