2003 Mazda Bongo 2.0L Petrol · RK53 OYF

The most recent MOT, conducted on 29 May 2026 at 219,664 miles, resulted in a pass, but the record reveals a vehicle that is steadily accumulating age-related wear rather than benefiting from a resolving maintenance trend. Multiple advisories for slight play in front and rear anti-roll bar ball joints and front track rod ends point to tired suspension bushings. The tester also flagged corrosion on the underside and a corroded rear brake pipe covered in grease, suggesting previous undersealing has masked rather than halted corrosion. A minor exhaust leak and persistent oil leaks from the engine and gearbox round out a picture of a high-mileage commercial vehicle that is functional but increasingly tired. The mileage progression is broadly consistent with the vehicle's 23-year age, averaging roughly 9,551 miles per year. Between the August 2022 test at 216,055 miles and the May 2025 test at 216,677 miles, only 622 miles were added over nearly three years, indicating a period of very light use or standing. The 2,987 miles added between May 2025 and May 2026 suggest a return to more regular service. The record is sparse between 2021 and 2022, with only a single pass noted, so a full service history should be verified independently. A buyer should focus the physical inspection on the underside, paying close attention to the rear brake pipe condition and the general extent of corrosion beneath the vehicle, particularly around suspension mounting points and box sections. The repeated advisories for ball joint and track rod play across both axles warrant a thorough check of all suspension bushes and joint boots. Oil leaks from the engine and gearbox should be assessed for severity, as seepage on a vehicle of this age can escalate if left unaddressed. The exhaust system, noted as corroded in 2021 and leaking in 2026, deserves close scrutiny for cracks, blowing joints, and catalytic converter condition. Tyre condition and wheel bearing noise should also be evaluated, given the 2025 failure for excessive nearside front wheel bearing play, which may indicate a component that was replaced but could signal broader hub wear across the vehicle.