2012 Mazda 3 1.6L Diesel · MF12 AXA

The most recent MOT on 17 October 2024 at 147,202 miles recorded a Pass, but the test flagged slightly hazy headlamp lenses, a rear tyre close to the legal limit and a marginal brake imbalance. The presence of only minor advisory items after a series of failures suggests the maintenance trend is stabilising, though the vehicle still requires attention to brakes and tyres before it can be considered fully reliable. Across fourteen years the car has accumulated 147,202 miles, averaging roughly 10,500 miles per year – a usage pattern that sits comfortably within normal UK expectations. The mileage rose from 97,101 miles in February 2018 to 141,186 miles by May 2023, indicating a steady increase of about 8,800 miles annually. The subsequent jump to 147,202 miles by October 2024 reflects a similar rate, showing no sudden spikes or prolonged idle periods that would hint at hidden mileage or neglect. Repeated failures on the 12 September 2024 test highlight serious concerns with the rear brake discs, which were described as “seriously weakened,” and extensive wear on both rear suspension arms and the sub‑frame, albeit without structural failure. The 9 May 2023 failure added mismatched tyre sizes, multiple tyre cuts, and an oil leak to the list of defects. A buyer should therefore inspect the rear brake discs for cracking or excessive thinning, verify that the suspension arms are free of excessive play and corrosion, and confirm that the sub‑frame shows no progression toward structural weakening. Visual checks of the headlamp lenses for haze, the rear registration plate lamp for operation, and a thorough tyre survey – especially the rear tyre on the edge of legal depth – are essential before finalising purchase.