2010 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · MX60 OFM

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of structural degradation. While it passed its most recent test on 9 June 2026 at 119,393 miles, it failed just six days prior due to fractured front coil springs. The tester noted significant corrosion across the underbody, suspension components, and the sills, which have been masked with underseal. This suggests a reactive approach to treating surface rust rather than addressing the underlying structural decay of the aging Mazda chassis. The mileage pattern is remarkably consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 7,500 miles per year. Between September 2024 and June 2026, the car covered roughly 1,300 miles, indicating very low usage over the last two years. However, this low mileage has not prevented significant mechanical wear, as evidenced by the recurring failures of suspension bushes and ball joints. The narrow gap in mileage between tests suggests the car may sit stationary for long periods, which often accelerates the deterioration of rubber components and allows deeper oxidation. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the subframes and suspension mounting points. The 2025 test specifically flagged corrosion on both the front and rear subframes, as well as the inner suspension mounting areas. Because the owner has used underseal to cover these areas, there is a high risk of hidden structural thinning that could eventually compromise the integrity of the vehicle. The recurring history of worn suspension arm bushes and ball joints from 2024 indicates that the front suspension geometry is nearing the end of its functional life and will require frequent replacement.