2017 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · PX17 XCP

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-07 resulted in a passing grade, though it revealed two persistent advisories concerning the offside rear tyres—one showing signs of cracking or perishing and the other indicating wear close to the legal limit along the inner edge. This follows a previous failure in 2026-08-03, where the same tyre defects were noted alongside more critical issues: a minor but concerning deterioration of both front lower suspension arm ball joint dust covers, which could compromise steering stability over time, and a dangerous failure warning for the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, which poses a significant risk of detachment under load. The intervening clean MOT results in 2025 and 2024 suggest a period of relative stability, but the recurring tyre and suspension advisories indicate a maintenance pattern that requires closer attention. The presence of a dangerous failure in the prior test underscores the importance of addressing the anti-roll bar linkage ball joint immediately, as this failure type often stems from prolonged neglect of suspension components or substandard maintenance practices. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 94,926 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,547 miles per year, which is typical for a nine-year-old Mazda CX-5 given its common usage patterns in the UK. This mileage does not suggest excessive wear from high annual mileage alone, but it does imply that the car has accumulated significant usage over its lifespan, particularly in the last three years where mileage accumulation appears steady. However, the potential for prolonged periods of standing—common in lower-mileage vehicles—cannot be entirely ruled out, as this could accelerate wear on components like brakes, suspension bushes, and seals. The absence of a clear spike in mileage suggests consistent but not necessarily aggressive driving, though the suspension and tyre advisories may reflect underlying issues exacerbated by either prolonged inactivity or cumulative wear from regular use. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the offside rear tyres for further deterioration, particularly the areas identified as cracked or worn close to the legal limit, as these defects can compromise traction and increase the risk of a blowout. On a test drive, listen for any unusual suspension noises, particularly from the front lower arms and anti-roll bar linkage, which may indicate loose or failing components. The deterioration of the ball joint dust covers suggests that the ball joints themselves may be worn or degraded, leading to increased play and potential binding. Inspect the suspension for uneven tyre wear, which could signal misalignment or failing strut mounts, and check for any clunking noises when driving over bumps, as this often points to worn suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. Additionally, visually inspect the anti-roll bar linkage for any signs of rust, cracks, or excessive play, as the prior MOT warning suggests this area is critical and may require immediate attention. For the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection focusing on the following areas: examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and environmental conditions; verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older vehicles often develop corrosion around terminals or suffer from reduced capacity, leading to starting issues or electrical system failures; inspect the brake discs and calipers for corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, which can result from prolonged standing or low-grade brake fluid; and check the fluid levels and condition of the brake, coolant, and differential fluids, as these should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s service schedule, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. Finally, verify that the service book is up to date, particularly for the suspension and tyre servicing, as the recorded advisories suggest that these components may have been neglected in the past. A thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural integrity is also advisable, as the CX-5’s design may be prone to corrosion in certain areas if exposed to damp conditions.