2007 Mazda 6 2.0L Petrol · SL57 CMX

The most recent MOT test on 2023-08-09 resulted in a failure, though no specific defects were recorded—an unusual omission that raises immediate concern. The vehicle’s roadworthiness history since 2021 is inconsistent, with two consecutive failures at 85,825 miles in August 2021, followed by a pass at 93,274 miles in August 2022, and another failure at 98,466 miles in August 2023. This pattern suggests either intermittent mechanical issues that evaded detection or a lack of transparency in the testing process. The absence of defects in a failed test is particularly noteworthy, as it implies either administrative error or unresolved faults that were not properly assessed. The recorded mileage of 98,466 miles over nearly 19 years equates to an average of around 5,182 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests is consistent at one year, but the abrupt failure in 2023—despite passing the previous year—indicates a potential deterioration in maintenance or undiagnosed wear. The lack of mileage spikes or prolonged inactivity suggests the vehicle was driven regularly, yet the low annual mileage implies it was not subjected to heavy use, which could mean some components may have been understressed but are now reaching critical thresholds. Given the inconsistent MOT results and the absence of defect details, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, as these are common failure points in vehicles of this age. The braking system warrants scrutiny, especially rear calipers and discs, given the repeated failures without recorded issues. Structural integrity should also be assessed for signs of corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as rust can compromise safety-critical components. The exhaust system and emissions controls should be checked for leaks or excessive wear, as these are frequent causes of MOT failures in older models. Given the lack of transparency in the MOT history, a thorough service history review is essential to confirm whether critical maintenance—such as timing belt replacement, differential fluid changes, or suspension refresh—has been performed.