2007 Mazda 6 2.0L Petrol · NU07 PLF

The most recent MOT inspection on 5 September 2024 resulted in a failure, indicating that the vehicle's mechanical condition is currently regressing rather than following a stable maintenance pattern. While the vehicle has secured passes in previous years, the transition from advisories to a formal failure suggests that several previously noted minor issues have now reached a level of non-compliance. The recurring nature of the advisories, particularly regarding braking components and suspension play, indicates that wear is progressing steadily across multiple systems. A buyer should view this recent failure as a signal that the vehicle is entering a phase of more intensive component replacement rather than simple preventative maintenance. With 120,640 miles recorded over approximately 19 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,350 miles per year. This represents relatively low annual usage, which is typical for a vehicle that may have been used for local trips or has spent significant periods stationary. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can be deceptive regarding the condition of rubber and fluid components. In this specific case, the low annual mileage likely contributes to the age-related degradation seen in the MOT history, such as the perishing of tyre sidewalls and the deterioration of suspension dust covers, as these components often fail due to time and environmental exposure rather than purely through distance travelled. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking and suspension systems during a test drive. The history shows persistent advisories for pitted and scored brake discs on both the nearside and offside rear, alongside a specific advisory for a corroded offside rear brake pipe. You should listen for any grinding noises during braking or a pulsating sensation through the pedal, which could indicate uneven disc wear or sticking calipers. Furthermore, the reported corrosion on the subframe mountings and the brake pipe requires a thorough underbody inspection. Ensure there are no signs of active fluid leaks near the rear brake lines and check that the corrosion is not advancing toward structural integrity issues. The reported play in the offside front anti-roll bar ball joint and the deteriorated dust covers on the lower suspension arm ball joints suggest that suspension components are nearing the end of their serviceable life. On the road, listen for rhythmic clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces or when turning the steering wheel, as these are classic symptoms of worn bushes or ball joints. Finally, the tyre condition warrants immediate scrutiny. The repeated advisories for cracking and perishing on the offside front tyre indicate that the rubber is losing its elasticity due to age, which increases the risk of a sudden blowout. Inspect all tyres for sidewall cracking, even if the tread depth appears sufficient. Given the vehicle's age and usage profile, you should also verify the service history to ensure that fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as stagnant fluids can lead to internal corrosion and reduced component longevity. Check the condition of the windscreen wipers and the clarity of the headlamp lenses, as these have been flagged as deteriorating in recent years and can impact visibility and safety.