2006 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · MT06 AEU

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend where structural corrosion is progressing from minor advisories to significant structural concerns. While the most recent test on 1 April 2026 at 138,965 miles resulted in a pass, the record shows a persistent and worsening pattern of oxidation. The tester flagged corrosion on the rear subframe and rear suspension arms, following a failed test in May 2024 where the nearside and offside rear inner suspension component mountings were noted as having excessively corroded, significantly reducing structural strength at the sills. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 6,950 miles per year. The data shows steady usage, moving from 66,988 miles in 2016 to the current 138,965 miles in 2026. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use, though the frequency of failures in 2021, 2022, and 2024 indicates that the owner has often been reacting to mechanical degradation rather than performing preventative maintenance. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough underside inspection to assess the true extent of the corrosion. The history shows a long-term struggle with an oxidizing exhaust system and deteriorating suspension components. Specifically, the tester noted light oil misting on the offside front shock absorber in the April 2026 test, and multiple previous entries highlighted perished anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers and worn suspension arm bushes. The recurring issues with headlamp lens fading and windscreen damage suggest a general lack of cosmetic and peripheral upkeep. The most critical risk remains the structural integrity of the sills and subframes. Although the 2025 test at 135,953 miles noted the front subframe and suspension arms were not seriously weakened, the subsequent 2026 report of rear subframe and suspension arm corrosion indicates that oxidation is spreading through the chassis. Any purchase should be contingent on a professional inspection of the mounting points and floor pans to ensure the corrosion has not progressed beyond the levels noted in the recent MOT advisories.