2012 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · MT12 UKP

The 2012 Mazda 6 holds a valid MOT issued on 19 March 2026 at 153,255 miles, but the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. The most recent test flagged severely deteriorated ball joint dust covers on both upper wishbone arms, a step up from the clean bill of health recorded in March 2023. This deterioration exposes the joints to road grit and water, accelerating wear and risking premature failure. The car has not failed an MOT outright, yet the trajectory of advisories points to a vehicle that is now shedding age-related defects rather than holding steady. Mileage accumulation sits at roughly 10,947 miles per year, which is typical for a 14-year-old car. The record shows consistent annual testing with no significant gaps, and the odometer has climbed steadily from 123,620 miles in March 2022 to 153,255 miles today. There are no suspicious jumps or long periods of inactivity. The annual distance covered is high enough to justify wear on consumables and suspension components, yet low enough that structural corrosion, rather than mechanical fatigue, is emerging as the primary concern. The recurring theme across the last three MOTs is corrosion. Rear suspension components, the sub-frame, and rear brake pipes have been flagged for corrosion in both March 2024 and March 2025, with the tester noting grease or other material masking the pipe ends. A buyer should inspect the rear sub-frame mounting points, the underside of the rear arms, and the full length of the rear brake lines for pitting or scaling. Surface rust is expected on a 14-year-old chassis, but any flaking metal or soft spots around the rear suspension pickup points would indicate a structural integrity risk that warrants further investigation. Beyond corrosion, the front suspension ball joint covers need immediate attention. Once the dust cover splits, the joint loses lubrication and will wear rapidly, potentially causing knocking, vague steering, or catastrophic detachment at speed. The slight play noted in the nearside front wheel bearing in March 2025 should also be rechecked, as higher-mileage Mazda 6s are prone to bearing wear. A thorough test drive over rough surfaces, combined with a full underside inspection on a ramp, is essential before purchase.