2002 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · LS02 ADX

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding tyre wear and alignment. While the most recent test in April 2026 at 107,237 miles passed, the tester flagged rear tyres worn to the legal limit with uneven edge wear. This follows a recurring pattern seen in 2025 and 2024, where both front and rear inner tyres were noted for similar issues. These persistent mechanical advisories suggest an unresolved alignment problem or worn suspension bushings that have not been addressed. At 107,237 miles over 24 years, this MX-5 averages a low of approximately 4,468 miles per year. There is a significant gap in the records between November 2021 at 98,444 miles and June 2024 at 106,313 miles, during which the vehicle covered only 8,000 miles over nearly three years. This low usage indicates periods of standing, which often leads to the degradation of rubber components and the seizing of mechanical parts despite the low odometer reading. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and suspension system. The 2024 test noted corroded rear suspension components, and the consistent mention of under-body sealant across the last three tests suggests the previous owner used the coating to hide structural rust on the sills, inner outer wings, or subframes. Given the recurring uneven tyre wear, a professional check of the control arms, tie rods, and bushes is essential to determine if the structural integrity of the suspension mounting is compromised by corrosion.