2009 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · LS59 EWP

The most recent DVSA test on 13 October 2025 recorded a pass, but it was accompanied by several advisories – the engine bay covers and under‑trays continue to obscure inspection points, both headlamp lenses remain cloudy, there is measurable play in the steering rack inner joint and the near‑side front wheel bearing is reported as slightly noisy. A concurrent failure entry for the same date notes an off‑side headlamp with severely reduced intensity and an incorrect bulb type, indicating that the vehicle left the test centre with at least one lighting defect still outstanding. Over the past four years the MOT record shows a pattern of recurring issues – persistent headlamp clouding, steering rack play, front wheel bearing noise, tyre‑wear anomalies and intermittent lighting faults – suggesting that remedial work has been either incomplete or not fully effective, and the overall maintenance trend is more concerning than improving. With 99,889 miles logged on a 2009 model, the average annual distance is roughly 5,900 miles, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 k mi per year. Such low mileage often points to periods of extended idle storage, which can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion on under‑body components. The modest mileage does not, however, guarantee low wear; the MOT notes of inner‑edge front tyre wear and a near‑side front tyre showing cracking indicate that even limited use may have been aggressive or that the vehicle has been driven on uneven surfaces. The low‑usage profile also means that time‑based components such as seals, gaskets and fluids may have deteriorated despite the relatively low kilometre count. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the steering rack – feel for any looseness or clunk when the wheel is turned at low speed and listen for a growling or humming noise that may increase under cornering, which would confirm the near‑side bearing issue. Inspect both headlamp assemblies for clouded lenses, moisture ingress or yellowing and verify that the correct bulb type and intensity are fitted; a weak or uneven beam can mask other safety concerns. Examine the tyre set carefully: confirm that the rear tyres are of the same size and tread depth, check the sidewalls for cracking, perishing or dry‑rot, and assess the front tyres for the reported inner‑edge wear and any surface damage on the near‑side tyre. Ensure that the side repeaters are securely mounted and that the rear registration plate lamp illuminates in concert with the position lamps. Because engine bay covers and under‑trays have been used to hide components, request that these be removed for a full visual inspection of wiring, hoses and the condition of the exhaust manifold and coolant hoses. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of inactivity, verify the health of the 12‑volt battery with a load test, check that the brake discs are free of excessive rust or scoring and that the calipers move freely without binding, and confirm that all fluid levels – engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and power‑steering fluid – are at the correct specifications and appear clear rather than milky or contaminated. A thorough under‑body inspection for corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, is essential. Finally, review the service history for evidence of regular oil changes, timing belt or chain service (if applicable) and any recorded replacement of wear items; a well‑documented maintenance record will mitigate many of the recurring MOT advisories and give a clearer picture of the car’s true roadworthiness.