2009 Mazda 6 1.8L Petrol · N17 EDC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but exhibits a clear and worsening trend of structural corrosion and suspension wear. While it passed its most recent test in August 2025 at 83,922 miles, the tester identified significant corrosion on the front sub-frame, rear axle, and front suspension arms. Although these components were not yet deemed seriously weakened, the persistence of rust across multiple areas indicates ongoing degradation. The newly flagged deteriorated offside front driveshaft CV boot in the latest test suggests that rubber components are failing due to age and exposure. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a seventeen-year-old vehicle, averaging just under 5,000 miles per year. The car remained largely clean between 2015 and 2020, showing no defects for intervals between 30,898 and 51,907 miles. However, the frequency of mechanical issues increased significantly after 70,000 miles, where the age of the vehicle began to trigger recurring failures. The low usage often implies periods of standing, which accelerates the corrosion of metal surfaces and the drying of rubber parts seen in the later records. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underbody, specifically focusing on the front sub-frame and rear axle to ensure the corrosion has not progressed toward structural thinning. The history shows a recurring pattern of worn rear suspension bushes and trailing arm links which were flagged in 2024, suggesting the rear suspension geometry is nearing its limit. Attention should also be paid to the braking system, as the record notes a history of binding calipers and poor parking brake efficiency. Given the deteriorated CV boot and corroded exhaust joints, a check of the drivetrain and exhaust system is essential to prevent immediate mechanical failure.