2018 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · OY18 CLF

The latest MOT test on 2026-03-10 resulted in a passing grade, with the only recorded defect being a minor issue with the offside windscreen wiper blade deemed borderline defective under DVSA standards. This marks a return to a clean MOT history following two consecutive years without any defects, suggesting a positive maintenance trend for the vehicle. The absence of recurring failures or worsening advisories in the past three years indicates that the Mazda CX-5 has been maintained in a generally roadworthy condition, though the presence of past advisories—particularly regarding brake disc wear and tyre condition—demands closer scrutiny during a physical inspection. The recorded mileage of 51,609 miles for a vehicle aged approximately eight years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,451 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for this model and class. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a car that undergoes regular, moderate use rather than extreme wear or prolonged periods of inactivity. However, without additional context on whether the vehicle has been driven daily, stored in a garage, or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it’s prudent to consider that lower mileage could imply less wear on consumables and longer-term fluid degradation, while higher mileage might accelerate component fatigue in suspension, brakes, and drivetrain systems. The consistency of the mileage figure suggests a steady ownership pattern, but a thorough inspection should account for potential hidden wear from either scenario. For a prospective buyer, the advisories from the 2023 MOT—particularly the rear brake disc wear and front tyre edge wear—highlight critical areas requiring immediate attention. The rear brake discs show signs of pitting or scoring but are not yet seriously weakened, meaning they may still function adequately but are approaching the point where further erosion could lead to reduced braking performance or even failure. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding noise when applying brakes, or excessive heat radiating from the rear wheels, which could indicate further disc wear or warping. Additionally, check for brake fluid leaks under the vehicle or a spongy pedal feel, as these could signal hydraulic system issues. The front tyres worn close to the legal limit on the edge suggest uneven wear patterns, which may stem from misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of dry rot or cracking, as these can compromise structural integrity over time, especially given the vehicle’s age. Beyond the advisories, a comprehensive inspection should include a visual and functional check of the suspension for signs of excessive play, clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, or worn suspension bushes and coil springs. Look for oil leaks under the engine bay, transmission area, and rear axle, as well as under the vehicle, which could indicate failing seals or gaskets. Verify the condition of the exhaust system for corrosion, rust, or excessive noise, as emissions-related advisories or failures could become a recurring issue if not addressed. Given the vehicle’s age, check the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, a weak crank or start, or reduced cold cranking amps, as batteries degrade over time and prolonged inactivity. Finally, since the vehicle has not had an MOT in over two years, ensure that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are topped up and free from contamination, as time-based degradation can lead to premature component failure. If possible, verify the presence of service book stamps for scheduled maintenance such as oil changes, brake servicing, and suspension checks, as these records can provide further insight into the vehicle’s upkeep.