2014 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · SK14 SLZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 6 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but the same date also records a fail prior to the pass being issued, with a major defect categorised as nearside rear service brake excessively binding under item 1.2.1 (f). The advisory recorded alongside both entries notes the offside front tyre is slightly damaged, cracking or perishing. Examining the broader MOT history, the vehicle has passed every annual test consecutively from 2020 through 2026 with no recorded advisories or failures until this latest event, indicating that the overall maintenance trend has been notably stable and consistent for several years but has now shown a regression. A binding rear brake is not a minor observation; it represents a mechanical fault that required rectification before the vehicle could be re-tested and passed, and the presence of tyre perishing on a twelve-year-old car suggests the beginnings of age-related rubber degradation. While the car is currently roadworthy, the buyer should be aware that the previously clean record has been interrupted and a closer physical inspection is warranted. The recorded mileage of 92,517 miles on a 2014 Mazda 6 represents an annual accumulation of approximately 7,710 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age in the UK. The MOT history shows annual tests being conducted at fairly regular intervals with mileage increments that appear consistent and proportionate, suggesting the car has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods or driven excessively. This usage pattern is mechanically favourable, as consistent running helps preserve components such as the 12V battery, brake calipers, brake discs, exhaust system, and drivetrain seals, all of which can deteriorate through inactivity. However, twelve years of service means that age-related wear items beyond the MOT scope should be expected, particularly rubber components, coolant, brake fluid, and engine oil seals. Given the major failure for a binding rear brake caliper, the prospective buyer should first establish what remedial work was carried out between the fail and the pass on 6 March 2026, and whether the repair involved a caliper replacement, a sliding pin clean and re-grease, or a brake hose renewal. On a test drive, listen for any dragging sensation, uneven pulling to one side, or a hot-smelling rear wheel area after driving, all of which would indicate the caliper is seizing again. The brake disc on the nearside rear should be inspected for uneven wear, lipping, or heat discoloration, and the handbrake mechanism should be checked for full release to ensure the binding fault has not simply been masked. It is also prudent to inspect the offside rear brake for similar symptoms, as binding faults can develop in paired components when one has been neglected. Beyond the documented defects, attention should be given to the age-related condition of components that fall outside the MOT but are critical to long-term reliability. The offside front tyre advisory for cracking or perishing should prompt a thorough inspection of all four tyres, including the sidewalls, as rubber deteriorates with calendar age irrespective of tread depth, and a twelve-year-old car may have aged tyres that require replacement even if legal. The brake fluid should be verified as recently changed, as it is hygroscopic and typically requires renewal every two to three years regardless of mileage, and the engine coolant should be checked for condition and concentration. The 12V battery is likely approaching the end of its service life and should be load-tested, while the timing chain, oil filter housing gasket, and rear suspension bushes are known wear items on higher-mileage Mazda 6 diesel models. Finally, a full service history should be requested to confirm regular oil and filter changes, and a compression test or diagnostic scan would be advisable to verify internal engine health given the vehicle's age and accumulated mileage.