2012 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · SD12 ABO

This Mazda CX-5 has demonstrated a concerning pattern of MOT failures over the past two years, with the most recent test on 19 December 2024—just five weeks ago—resulting in a pass despite a failure just two weeks prior at 143,165 miles. The lack of recorded defects in either test suggests the failures were likely procedural or administrative rather than mechanical, though this inconsistency alone raises questions about the vehicle’s reliability. The absence of advisories or repeated issues in the 2023 and 2022 tests implies no obvious structural or high-cost recurring problems, but the repeated failures at similar mileages (125,385 and 143,165) warrant scrutiny of the MOT tester’s methodology or potential undocumented issues. The recorded mileage of 143,359 miles over 14 years aligns closely with average usage for this model, averaging around 10,240 miles annually. There are no significant gaps in service intervals, though the 2022 failure at 125,385 miles—just one day before the preceding pass—suggests either a rushed or overlooked test. The 2023 interval of 9,313 miles between tests is typical, but the abrupt failure in late 2024 after minimal mileage (184 miles since the last pass) is unusual and may indicate a temporary administrative oversight rather than a mechanical trend. Given the lack of documented defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension components—particularly the rear subframe mounts and bushings—given the model’s known wear patterns at this mileage. The repeated failures also necessitate verifying brake system integrity, including rear caliper binding and disc thickness, as these are common failure points in older CX-5s. Structural corrosion, particularly around the sills, wheel arches, and subframe, should be examined closely, as should the exhaust system for leaks or excessive rust, which often go unnoticed in MOT tests. The engine bay should be inspected for oil leaks, timing belt condition (if applicable), and coolant system integrity, as these are critical but not always MOT-tested areas. The battery and electrical connections should also be checked, as intermittent failures can sometimes evade MOT scrutiny.