2015 Mazda 2 1.3L Petrol · RF64 FYY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 1 April 2026, following a failure in March 2026. While the most recent result is a pass, the maintenance trend suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to mechanical upkeep. The vehicle has a recurring history of failures and advisories related to steering and visibility components, specifically a major failure involving excessive play in the offside front track rod end. Although the immediate steering defect appears to have been rectified to achieve the pass, the consistent presence of multiple advisories across consecutive years indicates that several components are reaching the end of their serviceable life simultaneously. With a recorded mileage of 61,581 miles over approximately eleven years, this Mazda 2 has averaged roughly 5,600 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the vehicle has been used for short-distance trips or has spent extended periods stationary. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and gearbox, it introduces specific risks associated with age-related degradation. Low annual usage often leads to the hardening of rubber components and the degradation of fluids due to lack of thermal cycling, which can be just as detrimental to long-term reliability as high-mileage wear. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the persistent and worsening condition of the tyres. The MOT history shows a progression from simple cracking and perishing in 2024 and 2025 to actual wear reaching legal limits on the front axle in 2026. This suggests that the tyres are not only aging and losing structural integrity due to ozone degradation and sidewall cracking, but are also being worn unevenly. During a test drive, you should listen for rhythmic thumping or humming noises which indicate uneven tread wear, and check the sidewalls for any bulging or deep cracks. Furthermore, the previous advisories regarding suspension arm ball joint play and track rod end failure suggest that the front-end steering and suspension geometry may require further attention. Watch for any wandering at motorway speeds, steering wheel vibration, or clunking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds. Given the low annual mileage, you must perform a thorough physical inspection of all rubber-based components and fluids. Check the condition of the drive belts, coolant hoses, and various suspension bushes for signs of cracking or perishing. Because the car may have sat idle for periods, inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and test the brake pedal feel to ensure the calipers are not binding or sticking due to inactivity. It is also advisable to verify the service history to confirm that oil and brake fluid changes have been performed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as fluid hygroscopy can lead to internal corrosion in the braking system regardless of how little the car is driven. Finally, ensure the battery has been tested, as low-use vehicles are particularly prone to discharge and capacity loss.