1998 Mazda Bongo Friendee 2.5L Petrol · R499 VRH

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT, but the most recent inspection indicates a decline in mechanical oversight. While the car passed its test on 16 June 2026 at 158,828 miles, it failed just weeks prior due to multiple defects. The tester flagged binding front and offside rear service brakes, an ABS fault lamp, and an ineffective windscreen wiper. This failure suggests that despite a period of clean records, the braking system and electronic sensors are now requiring immediate attention to maintain roadworthiness standards. At 28 years old, the recorded mileage of 158,828 miles represents low annual usage averaging approximately 5,600 miles per year. The data shows consistent low mileage patterns between 2022 and 2026, where the vehicle covered only 4,036 miles over four years. However, there was a significant jump between 2020 and 2021 where the vehicle clocked over 2,300 miles in a short window, coinciding with a series of serious emission failures and mechanical issues recorded during that period. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, given the recurring history of thin pads and recent binding calipers. The 2022 advisory regarding corrosion on the offside rear inner arch warrants a close look at the structural integrity to ensure rust has not progressed beyond surface level. Furthermore, the history of emission failures in 2019, 2020, and 2021 indicates potential engine management or fuel system issues that may not have been fully resolved. The active ABS fault noted in the June 2026 test also requires diagnosis with a specialist tool to ensure the safety system is functional.