2010 Mazda 5 2.0L Petrol · RO60 TYD

The most recent MOT test for this Mazda 5 occurred on 2023-06-12, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects. However, the preceding MOT on 2023-06-06 revealed a pattern of persistent issues that warrant careful attention. The vehicle failed due to critical failures in the offside stop lamps and compromised anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers, both of which allow dirt ingress that can accelerate wear on the ball joints and associated suspension components. These failures were not present in earlier tests, suggesting either a recent mechanical issue or a gradual deterioration in the suspension system’s integrity. The advisory about the parking brake lever being high up indicates a potential mechanical misalignment or binding, which could lead to inefficient engagement or premature brake pad wear if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 156,485 miles at the time of assessment aligns with an approximate annual usage rate of around 9,780 miles, which is typical for a 16-year-old Mazda 5 under normal conditions. The consistent mileage accumulation over the years suggests moderate to heavy use, particularly in the last decade, which has likely contributed to wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily indicate neglect, but it does mean that fluid and lubricant degradation may be more pronounced due to the vehicle’s age and operational demands. The suspension and drivetrain components, which have been subjected to repeated loading cycles, could show signs of fatigue or wear that may not be immediately apparent but could develop into more serious issues over time. Given the recent MOT failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system. The offside stop lamps failing is a straightforward electrical issue but should be rectified immediately to ensure compliance with roadworthiness standards. The compromised anti-roll bar linkage ball joints are a critical concern; symptoms to watch for during a test drive include clunking noises from the suspension when driving over bumps, uneven ride height, or a feeling of the vehicle’s body leaning excessively in corners. The ball joints themselves may show signs of excessive play or binding when the suspension is stressed, and the presence of dirt or corrosion around the joint seals is a clear indicator of failure. The buyer should also verify the parking brake mechanism, checking for excessive free play or resistance when engaged, which could suggest a worn or misaligned mechanism. Immediate attention to these issues is recommended to prevent further damage to the suspension components and to maintain the vehicle’s stability and handling. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and functional integrity. Given the age and mileage, the tyres should be thoroughly checked for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety. The front tyres, in particular, have shown wear close to the legal limit in multiple MOT tests, indicating that they may need replacing soon to avoid reduced traction and increased risk of blowouts. The brake system should be inspected for signs of corrosion on the discs, particularly on the near and offside sides, which may indicate standing corrosion or uneven braking. Binding calipers or discs can lead to overheating and reduced braking performance, so any binding should be addressed promptly. Additionally, the buyer should verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older vehicles of this age can suffer from reduced capacity or corrosion in the terminals, which can lead to starting difficulties or electrical system failures. Finally, the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant should be checked, with particular attention to any signs of contamination or degradation, as these fluids can break down over time and require replacement to maintain optimal performance and prevent long-term damage. The service history should also be reviewed to confirm that time-based maintenance, such as timing belt replacement or suspension component servicing, has been carried out as recommended.