2018 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · LT18 XMH

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive rather than proactive care. The most recent test in March 2026 at 50,257 miles followed immediately after a failure just two days prior due to multiple safety-critical issues including thin brake pads, damaged tyres, and distorted wheels. While the car passed after these repairs, the recurring nature of thinning brake components across both axles suggests that the owner only addresses mechanical wear when it fails inspection rather than during scheduled service intervals. The mileage pattern is consistent with a low-use eight-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 6,300 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 35,932 miles in March 2023 to 50,257 miles in March 2026, with a notable clean year recorded at 44,984 miles. This low annual mileage generally reduces the strain on the drivetrain and engine, but the lack of frequent use often contributes to the surface corrosion noted on components, as seen with the offside rear brake disc corrosion flagged in the March 2024 test. A buyer must closely inspect the wheels and suspension components, as the history shows multiple instances of distorted road wheels and sidewall damage to the tyres. These defects indicate potential impacts with curbs, which could have compromised the wheel alignment or damaged suspension bushes. The braking system also requires a thorough check; the tester flagged thin front pads in both 2023 and 2026, alongside a binding offside caliper in 2023. Verify the current thickness of the pads and ensure that the recent repairs following the March 2026 failure were comprehensive and effective.