2014 Mazda 3 2.2L Diesel · OV64 NFD

The most recent MOT, carried out on 9 September 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that date. Over the preceding three years the record shows a mixed picture: a serious failure in September 2024 for a fractured rear coil spring and a compromised anti‑roll‑bar linkage, followed by a pass the following month after remedial work, and a series of brake‑related advisories in 2023. The progression from a dangerous tyre failure in 2022 to a clean pass in 2025 suggests that the owner has addressed the major faults, and the current trend is stabilising rather than deteriorating, provided that the corrective work was carried out to a proper standard. At 115,769 miles on a 2014 model the vehicle averages roughly 9,600 miles per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a car of this age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage accumulation that would point to premature wear of high‑load components, nor are there large mileage gaps that might conceal long periods of inactivity. The mileage therefore supports a standard wear pattern for the suspension, drivetrain and braking elements, but it also means that consumables such as tyres, brake pads and fluid will be approaching the end of their service lives and should be inspected closely. Potential buyers should give particular attention to the rear suspension and anti‑roll‑bar assembly, confirming that the fractured coil spring has been replaced with an OEM‑spec component and that the dust‑cover on the front anti‑roll‑bar linkage is intact and sealed to keep contaminants out. On a test drive listen for any clunk or thump from the rear corners when traversing bumps, and feel for any looseness in the steering column that could indicate lingering linkage play. The brake system showed multiple advisories in 2023 – thin front pads, lipped discs, crumbling rear pads and corroded front brake pipes – so a thorough visual inspection of pad thickness, disc surface condition and pipe integrity is essential. Look for uneven pad wear, scoring or rust on the discs, and any signs of fluid leakage around the brake lines; during a drive, note any pedal pulsation, pull to one side, or a spongy feel that would betray imbalance or air in the system. Given the car’s twelve‑year age, irrespective of mileage, the buyer should also check for age‑related deterioration. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or excessive hardening, as rubber can perish even on low‑mileage tyres that have been stored for long periods. The 12‑volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and electrolyte condition, especially if the vehicle has spent time idle. Engine oil, coolant and brake fluid should be sampled for colour and viscosity, as calendar‑based fluid degradation can occur even when service intervals have been met. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt (or chain) inspections and any recommended suspension component replacements, as these records will give confidence that the vehicle has been maintained in line with Mazda’s specifications.