2009 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · SL09 WVG

The 2009 Mazda 6’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2022-04-25 resulted in a passing outcome, though it carried multiple advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable wear and tear rather than critical failures. The presence of consistent advisories—particularly regarding rear sub-frame corrosion and front and rear brake disc wear—suggests a stable maintenance trend, albeit one that has not been fully resolved. These advisories do not reflect a sudden deterioration but rather the expected progression of wear in a vehicle of this age and usage profile. The absence of any failures or more severe advisories (such as binding brakes, structural damage, or exhaust emissions non-compliance) supports a roadworthy status, though the advisories warrant closer attention to prevent escalation into more costly issues. The recorded mileage of 115,938 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,820 miles, which is typical for this class of car under mixed conditions. The consistency of mileage accumulation suggests a steady, albeit not particularly high, level of operational use, which is less likely to have accelerated wear beyond what is expected for its age. However, the extended period between the last MOT and the previous one—if we infer a gap of several years—could imply periods of prolonged standing, which may have exacerbated certain issues, such as corrosion in the rear sub-frame or brake system components. This standing can also lead to issues like brake disc corrosion or caliper binding, as well as potential fluid degradation if not regularly serviced. For the prospective buyer, the advisories on the rear sub-frame and brake discs necessitate immediate and thorough inspection. The rear sub-frame corrosion advisory indicates that rust penetration has reached a stage where structural integrity is compromised but not yet critically so. During a test drive, listen for any signs of excessive clunking or rattling in the rear suspension area, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed, as this may reveal further deterioration. Additionally, check for any uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues linked to the sub-frame concerns. The brake advisories—particularly the thin pads and pitted discs—demand attention to prevent reduced braking performance or, worse, failure. Inspect the brake discs for any signs of warping, scoring, or excessive thickness loss; if they are significantly worn, consider replacing them alongside the pads. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact if the pads are too thin. Beyond the advisories, conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle to address broader maintenance concerns. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, focus on the following areas: inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to UV light and age-related degradation, even if mileage is moderate. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, swelling, or difficulty cranking the engine, as older batteries may struggle with cold starts or fail entirely. Verify that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and appear free of contaminants or discolouration, as fluid degradation over time can lead to engine wear, transmission issues, or brake failure. Finally, ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for timing belt replacement (if applicable), suspension component renewal, and exhaust emissions compliance checks, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a thorough inspection of the fuel system, electrical components, and any components prone to corrosion, such as the exhaust manifold or engine mounts.