2010 Mazda 2 1.3L Petrol · LP59 OSR

The most recent DVSA MOT, dated 14 October 2025, resulted in a Pass with a series of advisories covering an oil leak, underside corrosion and tyre wear on both axles. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has alternated between passes and fails, the latter being driven by a severely worn front ball‑joint, ineffective rear shock absorbers and a marginal front wheel bearing. The fact that the latest test cleared after a prior failure on the same date suggests that the major faults identified in the earlier inspection have been remedied, but the persistence of multiple advisories indicates that the overall maintenance trajectory is still only marginally improving rather than fully stabilised. At 97 679 miles the car has logged roughly 6 100 miles per annum since its 2010 registration, a figure that sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a vehicle of this age. The relatively modest annual mileage could be indicative of periods of low utilisation or prolonged storage, which in turn raises the likelihood of age‑related degradation such as rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of hidden components. Conversely, the mileage is sufficient to have exercised the suspension, steering and braking wear items, meaning that consumables should be inspected for wear beyond the simple mileage count. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the recurring oil leak noted in every MOT record; locate the source – whether a valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or crankcase seal – and verify that any seepage is not progressing to a drip that could affect the exhaust system or cause fire‑hazardous oil on the under‑tray. The underside corrosion advisory warrants a thorough visual inspection of the chassis rails, sub‑frame and exhaust mounts for rust that could compromise structural integrity, especially if the vehicle has spent time in damp environments. The front ball‑joint that was previously deemed excessively worn must be confirmed as replaced and correctly torqued, while the rear shock absorbers should be examined for oil leakage, loss of rebound and any audible “thump” when the car is driven over bumps. The slight play reported on the nearside front wheel bearing should be checked for excessive movement or noise when the wheel is rocked; a bearing that is only marginally worn may still be approaching the point of failure and could manifest as a humming or grinding sound at higher speeds. Tyre condition is an immediate concern: both front and rear tyres were reported as being close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear, a pattern often caused by mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven camber. Replacement of the tyre set is advisable before further use, and a professional wheel‑alignment should be performed to prevent premature wear on the new set. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of inactivity, the 12 V battery should be load‑tested, and the electrolyte level inspected if it is a conventional lead‑acid type. Time‑based fluids – brake, coolant and gearbox – should be flushed and replenished if service stamps are absent or exceed the recommended interval, as degradation can lead to reduced braking efficiency, overheating or corrosion of internal components. A careful test drive listening for clunks from the suspension, shudder through the brakes and any vibration in the steering column will help confirm that the remaining wear items are within acceptable limits before committing to purchase.