2009 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · MA09 EHC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding structural corrosion. While the car passed its most recent test in September 2025 at 117,638 miles, the record shows widespread rust issues across the undercarriage. The rear sub-frame, suspension arms, and anti-roll bars were all flagged for corrosion. Although these parts were not classified as seriously weakened yet, the presence of surface rust on multiple structural components suggests the vehicle is entering a stage where structural degradation will become a primary failure risk. At 117,638 miles, the car has averaged approximately 6,900 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The data shows a significant jump of over 16,000 miles between September 2023 and August 2024, followed by another 12,500 miles leading into the 2025 test. This consistent mileage accumulation, combined with the age of the Mazda, explains the accelerated wear seen on rubber and metal components like the bushes and ball joints noted in the history. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underbody to assess the depth of the corrosion on the rear sub-frame and suspension arms. The tester previously identified corroded brake pipes and a binding rear axle, which indicates that the braking system and moving components are suffering from environmental damage that could lead to sudden mechanical failure. The 2024 failure for a leaking shock absorber and a severely worn tyre suggests that basic maintenance is sometimes performed only after a failure occurs rather than preventively. Particular attention should be paid to the rear brake discs and coil springs to ensure the rust has not progressed beyond the last recorded advisory.