2012 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · MX60 JAN

The most recent MOT on 23 May 2026 was a pass, with only an advisory noting that the whole under‑body had been sealed. Earlier in the five‑year record there are two isolated failures – a fractured nearside rear upper coil spring in May 2024 and an off‑side front service brake that was excessively binding in May 2021 – both of which appear to have been rectified as subsequent tests have passed without further comment. The pattern suggests that the vehicle’s maintenance has responded to serious issues and, over the last two years, the condition has been stable and possibly improving, given the lack of new defects. At 67,100 mi the MX‑5 averages roughly 4,800 mi per annum, well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year for a sports‑roadster of this age. The low mileage points to periods of light use or extended storage, which can be benign for wear‑dependent components but may exacerbate age‑related deterioration of rubber, seals and corrosion‑protective coatings. The modest annual distance reduces the likelihood of cumulative fatigue on the chassis, but the vehicle’s 14‑year service life means that many consumables will have aged regardless of miles driven. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the rear suspension where the upper coil spring failed. Verify that the replacement spring is correctly fitted, that the mounting bushings and rear anti‑roll bar are free of cracks, and listen for any clunk or thump over bumps that could indicate a lingering weakness in the rear assembly. The front brake binding noted in 2021 should be confirmed as resolved; check that the caliper pistons move freely, that the pads engage evenly without shudder, and that there is no uneven wear on the discs, which could signal residual hydraulic or pad‑material issues. A thorough visual inspection of the brake lines for corrosion and a test‑drive brake fade check are advisable. Given the vehicle’s age, irrespective of mileage, inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, especially if the car has been stored for long periods. Examine the 12 V battery for sulphation and verify its charge‑holding capacity, as batteries over ten years often need replacement even with low use. Check all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour change, sediment or moisture, and consider a full service if the service book shows a gap of more than 12 months. Finally, assess the under‑body for any signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure the recent under‑body sealing remains intact to protect against corrosion in the future.