2002 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · LS02 ACZ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a concerning progression of structural and mechanical degradation. While the most recent test in August 2024 at 117,549 miles resulted in a pass, it highlighted persistent corrosion on the suspension components and the rear integral body structure. The presence of these issues across multiple years indicates that while the car meets the minimum legal requirements for MOT, the underlying oxidation is an active process that is being managed rather than resolved. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 117,549 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 4,900 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with vehicles sitting for extended periods, which frequently accelerates the type of surface corrosion seen in this record. Between January 2021 and January 2022, the car covered only 2,531 miles, yet suffered a significant failure due to structural rigidity issues and engine management light malfunctions. This suggests that the lack of mileage has not protected the vehicle from environmental-related decay of the chassis components. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the sills, wheel arches, and rear subframe, as the failure in January 2022 specifically flagged reduced rigidity in the offside rear integral structure. The recurring mention of corroded offside brake pipes in 2022 requires a close look to ensure the lines have been replaced and not merely cleaned. Additionally, the frequent reports of tyres worn to legal limits in 2021 and 2024 suggest that basic consumable maintenance is sometimes neglected, which is common in low-mileage older vehicles that are driven until a failure becomes imminent.