2015 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · LS15 AAK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 November 2025, was a pass but recorded two advisories – a light misting of oil from the nearside rear shock absorber and a front brake disc that is worn, though not yet beyond the acceptable limit. The preceding test a day earlier had failed on the same rear tyre for a bulge and exposed cords, and also flagged a major fault with the off‑side front windscreen wiper. Since that failure the vehicle has returned to a passing status, albeit with recurring minor advisories, indicating that the overall maintenance trend has stabilised but not fully resolved the underlying wear issues. With 61,284 mi recorded on a 2015 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,600 mi. This is considerably below the typical UK average of 10‑12 000 mi per year and suggests periods of light use or prolonged storage. Low mileage generally reduces wear on the engine, transmission and suspension components, but it also means that rubber parts such as tyres and seals may have aged more than the mileage would imply. Age‑related degradation can lead to tyre side‑wall cracking, loss of tyre flexibility and potential failure, while a battery that has sat idle for long stretches may exhibit reduced cranking power and an increased risk of sudden loss of charge. A prospective buyer should give the nearside rear tyre a thorough visual and tactile inspection. The previous bulge and exposed cords are classic signs of structural failure; any irregularities, soft spots or visible cracking in the sidewalls warrant immediate replacement. While examining the tyres, also check the off‑side rear for the nail previously noted and assess the overall tread depth and uniformity, as uneven wear can point to mis‑aligned suspension or worn bushes. On the test drive, listen for a low‑frequency thump or clunk when the rear wheel is loaded – a symptom of a leaking shock absorber or deteriorating bushings – and watch for any pull or vibration that may indicate tyre or suspension issues. The front brake discs, flagged as worn on several occasions, should be measured for remaining thickness; a disc approaching the minimum legal limit will soon need machining or replacement, and any pulsation or shudder under braking would confirm that the discs are nearing the end of their service life. Verify that the windscreen wiper clears the glass efficiently, as the previous major fault suggests possible blade wear or motor weakness. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑usage profile, time‑based maintenance is as important as mileage‑based checks. Inspect the 12 V battery for corrosion on the terminals, test its cranking voltage and consider a load test, especially if the car has been stored for extended periods. Examine all fluid reservoirs – brake fluid, coolant, power‑steering and gearbox oil – for colour, level and any signs of sediment; fluids over three years old should be flushed regardless of mileage. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and under‑carriage, and ensure that any rust is surface‑level rather than structural. Finally, confirm that the service history is complete and that any recommended interval services, such as timing‑belt or chain checks (if applicable to this engine), have been performed, as these are critical to long‑term reliability even on a low‑mileage vehicle.