2005 Mazda 6 1.8L Petrol · NL05 ASV

The most recent MOT test on this 2005 Mazda 6, conducted on 7 October 2021 at 120,607 miles, resulted in a failure with no specific defects recorded—an anomaly in the DVSA system. The preceding tests, spanning from April 2017 to May 2020, all passed without advisories or defects, suggesting a stable roadworthiness record until the abrupt 2021 failure. The absence of recurring faults in the earlier tests implies that the vehicle was likely maintained at a basic level, though the lack of advisories means no proactive warnings were issued for components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake binding. The 2021 failure itself is unhelpful, as it does not clarify whether the issue was cosmetic, structural, or mechanical—though the lack of defects in prior tests makes it unlikely to be a recurring systemic problem. The recorded mileage of 120,607 miles over approximately 21 years—roughly 5,743 miles annually—indicates unusually light usage for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2020 (97,720 miles) and 2021 (120,607 miles) tests spans 15 months, covering 22,887 miles, which is still well below average annual mileage for a car in active service. The previous tests in 2018 and 2017 show minimal mileage progression (96,641 to 103,014 miles), suggesting prolonged periods of inactivity or storage. While low mileage can reduce wear on high-stress components like the engine or transmission, it also raises questions about whether the vehicle was stored under optimal conditions, potentially leading to issues like battery corrosion, tyre degradation, or suspension stiffness from disuse. Given the sparse MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of critical wear items that are not routinely flagged in MOTs but are common in vehicles of this age. Focus on the suspension system—particularly the rear bushes and coil springs—for signs of dry rot or excessive play, as these are often overlooked until they fail catastrophically. The brakes, though not explicitly mentioned in the tests, warrant close examination for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the rear discs, especially if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. Structural integrity should also be assessed, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, for corrosion that could compromise safety. Given the lack of advisories in prior tests, there is no evidence of pre-existing mechanical neglect, but a thorough check of fluid levels (brake, power steering, coolant) and hoses is advisable to confirm they have been regularly serviced.