2012 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · MA12 PLZ

A pattern of intermittent but specific mechanical issues sits beneath an otherwise clean MOT record for this 2012 Honda Jazz. Across eight recorded tests, the vehicle has passed on six occasions, with one outright failure in 2022 and a separate pre-test failure the day before a pass in 2021. The most recent test on 10 February 2026 was a pass, but it carried an advisory for a smooth brake pedal, repeating exactly the same advisory noted at the February 2025 test. The two recorded failures, however, are more telling: the 2021 test flagged significantly worn rear brake discs on both sides alongside a serious fluid leak from a rear shock absorber, while the 2022 test cited ineffective wiper clearance and a deteriorated suspension rod ball joint dust cover. The clustering of braking and suspension-related defects, even with passes between, points to components that have needed attention rather than a consistently trouble-free mechanical state. Mileage of 33,834 miles across roughly 14 years equates to around 2,400 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age. Such modest annual accumulation typically indicates short, infrequent journeys rather than sustained motorway use, and the MOT record contains no multi-year gap that would suggest a prolonged period off the road. Mechanically, low-mileage examples of this age commonly present with ageing rubber components, dried suspension bushes, and brake components suffering from surface corrosion rather than wear, which aligns with the smooth brake pedal advisories and the prior rear shock absorber leak. The rear brake disc failures in 2021 are consistent with discs sitting idle and corroding rather than wearing through use, a known issue for lightly driven vehicles. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the rear braking system, as the vehicle has already required both rear discs to be replaced. On inspection, the rear discs should be checked for scoring, lipping, or corrosion pitting, and the calipers examined for seized slide pins, which are a common cause of uneven pad wear on Jazz models of this era. The 2021 advisory for a leaking rear shock absorber should be verified by checking for fluid residue around the shock body, and a road test over uneven surfaces should be carried out to detect any knocking, clonking, or excessive bouncing from the rear suspension, which could indicate a worn damper or deteriorated bush. The smooth brake pedal noted on two consecutive tests warrants pressing the pedal firmly to feel for a spongy or unresponsive feel, and the pedal travel should be assessed for any delay or excess effort. The suspension rod ball joint dust cover failure from 2022 is also worth scrutinising, as a perished cover permits dirt ingress and accelerates joint wear. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or rattling from the front end, particularly over speed bumps or when turning on full lock, and check for uneven tyre wear which can indicate worn ball joints or tie rod ends. The 2022 failure also flagged front tyre perishing and nails in both rear tyres, so a thorough inspection of the current tyres for cracking, sidewall damage, and adequate tread depth is advisable, including the spare if present. Given the low annual mileage, the braking and suspension components have historically suffered more from corrosion and standing-related deterioration than from outright wear, so a careful inspection of these areas, rather than a general mechanical overview, is the most productive use of a pre-purchase assessment.