2010 Mazda 3 1.6L Petrol · SL60 DXF

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding specific mechanical leaks and deferred repairs. The most recent test in October 2025 at 105,251 miles identified a persistent oil leak and a fluctuating condition on the offside rear service brake. These issues follow similar advisories from the 2024 test, indicating that while the car passes the minimum standard, underlying mechanical faults are not being proactively rectified. At 105,251 miles over sixteen years, the Mazda 3 averages approximately 6,600 miles per year, which is consistent with low-to-moderate usage. However, there is a significant gap in data between September 2022 and October 2023, where the vehicle covered 20,000 miles in just thirteen months. This sudden spike in usage likely contributed to the appearance of brake fluid issues and tyre wear noted in subsequent tests. Such a period of high-intensity use explains the transition from a clean 2021 record to the current list of defects. A buyer must personally inspect the engine bay to determine the source of the oil leak, as it has been flagged for two consecutive years. The recurring mention of damaged inner sidewalls on tyres in 2022 and 2024 suggests potential alignment issues or worn suspension components that could cause premature tyre failure. Furthermore, the fluctuating offside rear brake requires a check for a sticking caliper or a warped disc to ensure the braking system remains effective and does not cause uneven component wear.