2017 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · OV67 GOU

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2017 Mazda 6, conducted on 2025-10-29, resulted in a passing outcome with no recorded defects, marking a continuation of a stable maintenance record. Despite the vehicle’s failure in 2020-10-12—where a major defect was identified in the near-side rear seat belt retracting mechanism—the subsequent five consecutive MOTs have all passed without issue, suggesting either a resolution of the original problem or a robust design resilience in this component. This trend indicates a generally reliable vehicle, though the buyer should be mindful of the seat belt system’s history and ensure no residual issues persist, particularly if the vehicle has been subjected to prolonged static conditions or heavy use that could exacerbate mechanical fatigue in such mechanisms. The recorded mileage of 82,579 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a moderate annual mileage of approximately 9,175 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This usage profile does not suggest either extreme wear from high mileage accumulation or prolonged idleness, which could lead to specific issues such as fluid degradation or corrosion from standing. However, the slight dip in mileage between 2020 and 2021—where the vehicle appears to have been stationary for a period—could have allowed minor wear-related components to settle or even accelerated corrosion in certain areas, such as the exhaust system or brake components. The absence of advisories or further failures in the intervening MOTs supports the likelihood that the vehicle has been maintained adequately, but a thorough inspection should account for potential seasonal or usage-related wear patterns. Given the clean MOT history aside from the single major failure in the seat belt mechanism, the buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the near-side rear seat belt system, particularly focusing on the retracting mechanism for signs of residual wear, binding, or electrical faults. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the belt assembly, such as excessive clicking or resistance when the belt is retracted or deployed, and check for proper operation when the seat is adjusted. The seat belt’s functionality is critical for roadworthiness, so any malfunction could render the vehicle unsafe. Beyond this, the buyer should also examine the vehicle’s suspension and steering components for signs of wear or damage, such as excessive play in the control arms, clunking noises from worn suspension bushes, or uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate alignment or steering system issues. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of several key areas to ensure long-term reliability. Start with the tyres, checking for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity over time, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Inspect the 12V battery and associated wiring for signs of corrosion or wear at the terminals and connectors, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain and electrical issues. The brake system should be scrutinised for signs of corrosion or binding on the discs and calipers, particularly on the near-side where the seat belt failure occurred, as standing can accelerate rust formation. Additionally, the fluid levels—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for degradation or contamination, as fluids can break down over time regardless of mileage. Finally, verify that the service history is up to date, particularly for oil changes and timing belt replacement if applicable, as these are critical for maintaining engine longevity and preventing catastrophic failures. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and exhaust systems will be more pronounced, but the absence of MOT failures suggests it has been managed well.