1996 Mazda Bongo 2.5L Diesel · N486 AHD

This Mazda Bongo has maintained a consistent MOT pass status through its most recent tests, with no recorded defects in any of the four consecutive examinations spanning from March 2022 to April 2025. The last successful test occurred just under three years ago, on April 16, 2025, at 167,924 miles—a period that aligns with the vehicle’s annual MOT cycle. While the absence of advisories or failures suggests the tester did not identify any critical issues at those intervals, the extended gap since the last inspection (nearly 15 months as of July 2026) introduces a notable risk. Vehicles of this age and mileage are prone to latent failures in components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake caliper binding, which may not always manifest until subjected to stress or further wear. The recorded mileage of 167,924 miles over approximately 30 years equates to an average of around 5,597 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than the UK average for vehicles of this vintage. This suggests the Bongo has seen either minimal use or prolonged periods of storage, which could mitigate some wear but also implies deferred maintenance. The mileage increments between tests remain steady—around 1,530 miles per year—without abrupt jumps or prolonged stagnation, though the lack of intermediate servicing records means critical components like timing belts, fuel injectors, or differential fluid may not have been addressed in line with manufacturer recommendations. Given the vehicle’s age and the absence of MOT advisories, a prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle bushes and coil springs, which are common failure points in this model. The brakes, including caliper binding and disc thickness, warrant close examination, as do the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks and the structural underbody for signs of rust penetration. The engine bay should be checked for oil leaks, coolant contamination, and the integrity of hoses, while the interior should reveal whether the air conditioning or electrical systems have been neglected. The low mileage pattern hints at potential deferred servicing, so verifying service history beyond MOT records—particularly for timing components and fluid changes—will be essential.