2016 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · NA16 KXK

A consistent record of roadworthiness has been established over the last two years, culminating in a clean pass on 28 August 2026. This stability follows a failure in September 2024, where the vehicle required the replacement of both offside and nearside front track rod end ball joints due to excessive play. Since those repairs, the vehicle has passed three consecutive tests without any recorded defects or advisories, indicating that the steering geometry issues were addressed and no new major faults have emerged in the recent testing cycle. The recorded mileage of 150,940 miles is high for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 15,000 miles per year. Such a high rate of accumulation typically results in accelerated wear on high-stress components, including suspension bushings, engine mounts, and drivetrain linkages. While the MOT history does not show current failures, the overall mileage indicates the vehicle has been used extensively, which places significant demand on the mechanical assembly and consumables compared to lower-mileage examples. During a test drive, specific attention should be paid to the steering precision and front-end stability to ensure the previously replaced track rod ends and associated steering rack components are functioning correctly. Listen for any knocking or clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when traversing uneven road surfaces. Any vague feeling in the steering or a tendency for the vehicle to drift may indicate further wear in the steering linkages or a need for wheel alignment. Given the high mileage, a thorough physical inspection of the remaining suspension components is advisable. Check for perished rubber bushings in the control arms and any signs of leakage from the shock absorbers. While the recent tests are clear, the high mileage increases the likelihood of wear in the drivetrain; therefore, any unusual vibrations through the floor or pedal judder under braking should be noted as potential indicators of worn components that may not yet have reached the threshold of an MOT failure.