2017 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · MJ67 LSD

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Mazda, conducted on 2026-07-21, resulted in a pass with a single advisory regarding an offside rear tyre nail. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that suggest a concerning maintenance trend rather than stability. The vehicle failed in 2024 with multiple dangerous defects, including exposed tyre cords, which is a severe condition indicating significant tyre wear beyond legal limits and potential internal damage. The 2023 MOT also highlighted thin brake pads and further tyre wear close to legal limits, while prior tests in 2025 and 2024 documented corroded coil springs and compromised ball joint dust covers, all of which compromise suspension integrity and fluid ingress risks. These failures are not isolated incidents but part of a persistent pattern, implying either poor maintenance practices or inherent wear progression from high mileage and prolonged exposure to environmental conditions. The recorded mileage of 78,315 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 8,702 miles, which is within the typical range for this age group. However, the absence of a 2023 MOT—suggesting a potential gap of over three years between tests—raises concerns about how the vehicle was maintained during that period. While the mileage alone does not justify the severity of the defects recorded, the combination of high mileage and repeated failures points to either aggressive driving or neglect in addressing wear-related issues. The exposed tyre cords in 2024 are particularly alarming, as they indicate the tyres have reached a critical state where they are no longer safe to operate, regardless of remaining tread depth. This suggests either rapid wear from heavy use or poor tyre management. Given the vehicle’s history of severe MOT failures, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and tyre systems. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the front suspension, particularly around the ball joints and anti-roll bars, as these could indicate further deterioration of the compromised dust covers and ball joints. Inspect the front tyres closely for uneven wear patterns, which may suggest alignment or camber issues exacerbated by the corroded coil springs. Additionally, check for any signs of fluid leaks under the vehicle, as the exposed ball joint dust covers suggest dirt ingress and potential lubrication failure. Brake inspection is critical too; look for binding calipers, warped discs, or excessive heat discolouration, as the thin brake pads from prior MOTs indicate ongoing wear and potential braking performance degradation. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, which are critical for a nine-year-old car. Given the age and mileage, the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, as these fluids degrade over time even with moderate usage. The 12V battery should be tested for capacity and corrosion on the terminals, especially if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods, as standing can accelerate corrosion in the suspension components and brake systems. Finally, a visual inspection of the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing from age is essential, as this can compromise structural integrity and safety. If the tyre defects from 2024 were not addressed promptly, the buyer should insist on immediate replacement of the tyres to avoid future accidents.