2001 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · PE51 YYV

The 2001 Mazda MX-5 passed its most recent MOT on 6 August 2025 at 110,490 miles, but the record reveals a maintenance pattern that is stable rather than improving. The tester flagged corrosion on both rear brake pipes, worn front suspension arm bushes, a binding nearside front service brake, and corrosion across the suspension arms, rear sub-frame, and sill structures. These advisories were present on the failed test earlier the same day and carried through to the pass, indicating the underlying issues were addressed only to the minimum standard required. The car has not covered any miles since that August 2025 test, meaning the current mileage of 110,490 is now over ten months old and the vehicle may have been stationary for an extended period. At roughly 4,420 miles per year, the annual mileage is low for a 25-year-old sports car, yet the MOT history shows the kind of age-related deterioration you would expect regardless of use. The mileage jumped from 91,462 in April 2023 to 109,105 by May 2024, a gain of 17,643 miles in just over twelve months, before flatlining entirely. That sudden spike followed by a complete stop raises questions about how the car was used and whether it has sat unused since mid-2025. Long periods of inactivity can accelerate corrosion in brake lines, seals, and suspension components, which aligns with the recurring brake pipe corrosion and binding brake noted in the most recent test. A buyer should focus the physical inspection on the structural corrosion that has appeared consistently across multiple tests. The sills, front chassis legs, seat belt anchorages, and rear sub-frame have all been flagged for corrosion at various points, with the tester repeatedly noting that structural rigidity was not significantly reduced. That language can mask progressive weakness, so a thorough check with a torch and probe is essential, especially around the rear sub-frame mounting points and the offside rear wheel arch where corrosion was specifically noted in 2023. The front lower suspension arm ball joints and dust covers were flagged as excessively worn and deteriorated in the 2023 failure, and while the 2025 test only noted worn bushes, the earlier wear suggests the entire front suspension linkage deserves close scrutiny. The braking system demands particular attention. Both rear brake pipes have been cited for corrosion covered in grease or other material, a description that often means the corrosion is active beneath contamination and not merely surface rust. The binding nearside front service brake and the previously binding offside rear brake point to caliper or slider pin issues that may return after prolonged standing. Before purchase, have the brake lines inspected for pitting, the calipers checked for free movement, and the condition of the rear brake discs and pads verified against the 2023 advisory on disc wear. The exhaust centre flange also has a history of minor gas leaks, so check for blow marks or soot staining at that joint.