2009 Mazda 6 2.0L Petrol · OV59 WOU

The most recent MOT test conducted on 20 August 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance profile shows a concerning downward trend regarding consumables. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record for several years, there is a clear and recurring pattern of deteriorating tyre condition and brake wear that has escalated in recent inspections. The transition from no defects in 2023 to repeated advisories for perishing tyres and thinning brake pads in 2024, 2025, and 2026 suggests that while the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, it is entering a phase of required preventative maintenance to address age-related degradation. With 106,100 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,241 miles per year. This relatively low annual mileage is consistent with a vehicle that has spent significant periods stationary or has been used primarily for short-distance local trips. From a mechanical standpoint, this usage profile often leads to different wear patterns than high-mileage motorway vehicles. While there may be less overall wear on the engine and drivetrain, low-use vehicles are highly susceptible to rubber component perishing, fluid degradation, and brake component corrosion due to lack of regular thermal cycling and heavy use. The recurring advisories regarding the nearside and offside rear tyres are a significant point of concern for a prospective buyer. The repeated mention of cracking and perishing indicates that the rubber is suffering from age-related ozone degradation rather than just tread wear. On a test drive, you should inspect the tyre sidewalls closely for any deep fissures and listen for increased road noise or vibrations, which can indicate structural weakness in the carcass. Furthermore, the history of thinning rear brake pads, which were noted as 80 percent worn in 2025, necessitates an immediate inspection of the rear braking system. You should check for any brake shudder during deceleration or a high-pitched squeal, and verify that the rear calipers are not binding, which can happen when a vehicle is driven infrequently. Given the age of the Mazda 6 and its low annual mileage, you must also look beyond the MOT certificate to ensure long-term reliability. The 2019 advisory regarding underside corrosion suggests that the vehicle's structural integrity should be closely inspected for significant rust, particularly on the sills and suspension mounting points. Because the car has likely stood for periods at a time, check the 12V battery health and inspect all rubber hoses and belts for signs of cracking. It is also advisable to 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 chemical degradation occurs even when the vehicle is not in motion.