2012 Mazda 2 1.3L Petrol · NL12 AEC

The vehicle currently holds a valid pass from the 9 March 2026 test at 98,359 miles, leaving roadworthiness intact but the underlying maintenance trend is worsening rather than stable. The tester logged a sump plug oil leak and slight steering rack free play at the wheel, compounding older faults. Recurring front-end wear across four consecutive annual tests shows the previous owner deferred non-critical repairs until advisories stacked up. Recorded mileage rose from 79,267 in March 2023 to 98,359 by March 2026, an average of roughly 6,400 miles per year that matches the car's 14-year age and light-use profile. The largest single jump was 9,364 miles between March 2024 and March 2025, yet no test gap exists; the owner kept annual compliance but let components degrade between visits. Sparse minor fails, such as the March 2025 headlamp aim rejection, suggest basic checks were occasionally skipped rather than a neglected heap. A buyer should physically verify the near-side front wheel bearing, flagged with slight play in 2024 and again in both 2025 tests, as continued play risks hub failure. The March 2025 distorted road wheel remains an advisory and warrants straightness and balance inspection. Steering rack free play and inner joint wear noted in 2023 and 2026 point to worn rack mounts or track rod ends needing confirmation on a ramp. The March 2023 suspension arm inner rear bush unbonding and rear shock misting imply ageing bushes and dampers best pressure-tested for movement. Confirm the sump plug seal and surrounding oil leak at 98,359 miles is not tracking onto the exhaust. Check under-trays are removed for full structural inspection, as the 2023 tester could not fully view the floor.