2012 Mazda 3 2.2L Diesel · MF12 AXP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the most recent MOT history indicates a shift toward reactive maintenance after several years of clean records. While the car passed its March 2026 test at 146,817 miles, it failed the initial inspection that same day due to a variety of wear-and-tear items. This trend suggests that while the owner previously maintained the car without defects, they are now only addressing faults once they trigger an MOT failure. The mileage profile remains consistent with a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 10,500 miles per annum. Between the February 2023 and 2024 tests, the car covered 16,313 miles, showing a steady usage pattern. However, the jump of 5,825 miles recorded between February 2025 and March 2026 represents a significant increase in annual mileage, which likely correlates with the sudden rapid degradation of the rubber suspension components and braking surfaces identified in the latest test. A prospective buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front suspension geometry, specifically the nearside front suspension arm ball joint which was flagged for play. The presence of pitted rear brake discs and thin pads indicates that the braking system is nearing the end of its service life. Furthermore, both rear tyres were at the legal limit with uneven edge wear, which often points to alignment issues or worn shock absorber dampers. The frayed central rear seat belt remains a minor safety concern that requires replacement to ensure it functions correctly in an impact.