2004 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · MM04 GSV

A persistent pattern of structural corrosion and brake-related defects defines this 22-year-old MX-5 across six years of recorded MOT tests, with three failures and recurring advisories that point to a chassis steadily succumbing to age-related oxidation. The most recent test on 3 May 2024 produced a Dangerous failure centred on the rear braking system, where pads were worn below 1.5 mm, the offside rear caliper was leaking hydraulic fluid, and all four corners showed evidence of binding service brakes. Earlier failures in 2023 and 2021 flagged seized wipers, an inoperative engine management indicator, a failed horn, and serious structural concerns around the nearside rear seatbelt anchorages on the sill and lower arch. Advisories recorded in 2020, 2021 and 2022 build a consistent picture of progressive deterioration: front and rear subframe mounting corrosion reaching the point of significantly reduced structural strength by March 2020, weakening outer sills, corroded brake pipes, and generalised suspension component corrosion across both axles. Two passes were achieved in this period, but both were accompanied by multiple advisories rather than clean returns, indicating that any apparent roadworthiness has been conditional on addressing accumulating wear. Recorded mileage stands at 82,709 miles over approximately 22 years, equating to an annual accumulation of around 3,760 miles, which is notably low for the vehicle's age. The MOT record confirms this with annual readings progressing from roughly 71,000 miles in 2020 to 82,709 by 2024, representing consistent but modest use. While low mileage generally reduces wear on engines and transmissions, it often correlates with extended periods of standing, and the test history suggests the vehicle has experienced sufficient road exposure and weather cycles to develop meaningful structural and brake component degradation rather than suffering from outright neglect. A prospective buyer should treat the brake system as a priority inspection area given the Dangerous failure on the rear pads and discs and the recurring binding issues at all four corners. On a test drive, listen for any continuous rubbing or whining from the wheels which would indicate a caliper still seizing, feel for pulling to one side under braking, and check for a spongy or sinking pedal which would be consistent with the offside rear hydraulic leak. The rear discs should be inspected for deep pitting and the handbrake holding firmly without dragging. The underbody warrants close examination with a torch or ramp inspection, paying particular attention to the front and rear subframe mounting points above the undertray, the outer sills, and the nearside rear lower arch where the seatbelt anchorage was previously deemed to have significantly reduced strength. Any fresh corrosion, flaking metal, or evidence of recent welding in these areas should be queried carefully, as structural repairs on a 2004 MX-5 can be costly. The suspension history also deserves focused attention during any viewing. Advisories have repeatedly flagged corroded suspension arms, bushes, and component mountings across both front and rear axles, and on the road the car should feel composed over uneven surfaces without clonks, knocks, or vibration through the steering. Body roll and imprecise turn-in could indicate worn bushes or weakened links. Additionally, while the engine management light issue from 2021 is not currently flagged, a diagnostic scan is advisable to confirm no stored fault codes remain, and basic checks should confirm full wiper operation, washer function, horn response, and that all seatbelts latch and retract correctly, as multiple non-braking items failed across the 2021 and 2023 tests. Given the cumulative evidence of chassis corrosion and brake wear, budgeting for immediate remedial work on these systems would be prudent before relying on the vehicle for regular use.