2014 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · LP14 EOV

The most recent MOT test on 2025-10-14 resulted in a passing grade, but the vehicle’s maintenance history reveals a pattern of persistent, recurring advisories rather than a clear improvement. While the test passed, the front brake pads are noted as wearing thin on both sides to just 3mm of remaining friction material, a critical threshold that suggests ongoing, unaddressed wear beyond the legal minimum. Additionally, the rear suspension arms—both lower and upper—have been flagged as corroded but not structurally compromised, indicating long-term exposure to moisture and salt that accelerates rust progression. These advisories have been consistently recorded since 2019, with no evidence of remedial work or replacement, which raises concerns about the vehicle’s long-term suspension integrity and potential for premature failure, particularly under heavy loads or adverse driving conditions. The lack of a more recent MOT since 2025 also implies either a gap in testing or a reluctance to address these issues, which could escalate into more severe mechanical failures if left unattended. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 150,401 miles at the age of 12 years represents an unusually high annual usage rate of approximately 12,533 miles per year, far exceeding the typical mileage for a similarly aged Mazda 6 in the UK market. Such elevated mileage accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, which aligns with the advisories observed in the MOT history. The absence of significant mileage gaps—particularly given the extended period between 2018 and 2020—suggests either intensive use or a lack of regular maintenance, both of which contribute to accelerated deterioration. The rear tyres, in particular, show signs of uneven wear and edge trimming, which may indicate misalignment, camber issues, or suspension misalignment that could worsen with continued high-mileage operation. This pattern underscores the need for a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry and alignment to prevent further tyre degradation and potential handling instability. For a prospective buyer, this Mazda 6 warrants a meticulous physical inspection to address the recurring advisories and high-mileage wear. Begin with the brakes: visually inspect the front pads and discs for further thinning or glazing, and listen for abnormal grinding or pulsation during braking, which could signal warped discs or hydraulic issues. The rear suspension arms, particularly the lower arms, must be closely examined for signs of further corrosion, especially around the pivot points and mounting points, as rust can compromise their function and lead to excessive play or binding. Check for uneven suspension travel or clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. Additionally, verify the alignment of the tyres—uneven wear patterns like edge trimming or feathering often point to misalignment, which should be corrected to prevent further tyre damage and suspension strain. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and high mileage necessitate attention to several other critical areas. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with low mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and road salt, particularly in the UK climate. Check the 12V battery for signs of weakness, such as corrosion on terminals or difficulty cranking the engine, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure from prolonged idling or high-mileage operation. The engine oil and coolant should be checked for degradation, with a recommendation to replace them if they are older than 60,000 miles or 5 years, respectively, due to the vehicle’s high mileage. Finally, verify that the service book records are up to date, especially for fluid changes, filter replacements, and timing belt servicing if applicable, as these are often overlooked in high-mileage vehicles. A comprehensive test drive should include checks for exhaust emissions leaks, exhaust system vibration, and any unusual noises from the drivetrain or transmission, as these can indicate deeper mechanical issues that may not be apparent from the MOT history alone.