2010 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · RO60 TYK

The latest MOT test on the 2010 Mazda 6 recorded a passing outcome on 2026-09-01, following a series of advisories and one prior failure within the past seven years. The trend in the vehicle’s MOT history is stable rather than deteriorating, with the majority of tests passing without defects aside from the recurring tyre and suspension advisories. The two notable failures in 2016 and 2017—both related to lighting and windscreen wiper functionality—suggest that while the electrical and optical systems are now resolved, the vehicle’s overall roadworthiness remains consistent with the expected wear patterns of its age. The absence of critical failures or structural issues in recent years indicates that the vehicle has maintained a reliable maintenance regimen, though the advisories highlight areas requiring closer attention to prevent further degradation. The recorded mileage of 165,930 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 16 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,371 miles per year, which is within the typical range for a car of this size and class. This usage profile suggests a balanced driving pattern, though the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the extended period without testing from 2018 to 2021—could indicate periods of lower activity or prolonged standing. Prolonged idling or infrequent use can exacerbate issues such as brake disc corrosion, standing corrosion in the suspension or exhaust components, and fluid degradation in the cooling and hydraulic systems. Conversely, higher mileage accumulation over time would have accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and tyres, but the current mileage does not suggest extreme overuse. Given the recurring advisories—particularly the nearside rear tyre wear close to the legal limit and the slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint—buyers should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment, steering system issues, or camber problems. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the suspension, especially when navigating bumps or corners, as this may suggest worn or failing suspension components. The ball joint play could lead to steering instability or reduced handling precision, so checking for excessive play or grinding noises during steering maneuvers is critical. Additionally, visually inspect the suspension arms and bushings for signs of cracking or excessive wear, and ensure the vehicle’s alignment is correct to prevent further tyre degradation. For the electrical advisories from past MOTs—particularly the failed headlamp and registration plate lamp—the vehicle’s lighting system should be tested thoroughly, including the dipped beam, main beam, and indicator functions, to confirm all components are operational. The windscreen wiper advisories from 2016 suggest that the wipers may require replacement if they continue to fail to clear the windscreen effectively, which could pose a safety risk during adverse weather conditions. Beyond the MOT advisories, buyers should prioritise a visual inspection of the vehicle’s exterior for signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches, undercarriage, and exhaust system, as these areas are prone to corrosion at this age. Check the brake discs for signs of corrosion or binding, which can occur when the vehicle stands for extended periods without use. The 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failure from prolonged disuse. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider a comprehensive fluid check—including brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid—to ensure they are free of contaminants and within the recommended service intervals, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on critical components.