2009 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · ML59 AVJ

The most recent MOT on 2025-06-09 recorded a minor exhaust gas leak (6.1.2 (a)), which is a low-severity issue but indicates potential wear in the exhaust system. This follows a pattern of corrosion-related findings in earlier MOTs, including structural corrosion in 2024 and subframe mounting corrosion in 2022. These issues suggest the vehicle has experienced ongoing exposure to environmental factors, though none have significantly compromised structural integrity or safety. The 2023 MOT included a failed test for a faulty nearside rear registration plate lamp, which was later resolved. No other defects were recorded in the same year, indicating the vehicle generally met safety standards when inspected. However, the 2022 MOT noted insecure body and subframe mountings, which were described as not significantly reducing overall security. These findings imply gradual degradation in fastening systems, possibly due to age or vibration. The vehicle’s mileage of 69,475 miles over 17 years equates to roughly 4,087 miles annually, which is low for its age. This could indicate light usage or prolonged periods of inactivity, both of which may contribute to corrosion, fluid degradation, or component stiffness. However, the absence of major mechanical failures in recent MOTs suggests the car has not been subjected to heavy wear.