2016 Mazda Cx-3 1.5L Diesel · SL66 LUY

Frequent suspension and tyre-related failures characterise the mechanical history of this Mazda CX-3, which has exhibited a pattern of recurring component degradation over its testing life. While the vehicle successfully passed its most recent MOT on 20 November 2025, the record shows a consistent history of safety-critical issues, particularly involving steering stability and tyre integrity. The progression of MOT results indicates that while the vehicle is capable of passing annual inspections, it requires ongoing attention to high-wear chassis components to remain roadworthy, moving from dangerous defects in 2022 to more manageable advisories in the most recent assessment. Accumulating 131,009 miles over ten years results in an average annual usage of approximately 13,100 miles, placing this vehicle well above the typical mileage for its class. This high-intensity usage profile suggests that the drivetrain and suspension systems have been subjected to significant operational stress. Prospective buyers should be aware that at this mileage, the vehicle has likely exceeded the intended service life of several original factory components, meaning that the mechanical health of the car is heavily dependent on the quality and frequency of the replacement parts fitted during its high-mileage tenure. Given the history of failed anti-roll bar linkages and deteriorating ball joint dust covers, the test drive must focus on identifying play or noise in the front suspension. Listen carefully for metallic knocking or clunking sounds when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are primary indicators of worn drop links or failing suspension bushes. Furthermore, the recurring advisories for thin brake pads suggest that the braking system is a high-consumption area; during your test drive, ensure the pedal feel is firm and consistent, and check for any pulling to one side under braking, which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear that has not yet been rectified. The repeated history of tyre-related advisories and failures highlights the importance of inspecting the current tyre set for uneven shoulder wear, which often points to underlying alignment issues common in high-mileage examples. Because the vehicle has been flagged for windscreen damage in multiple tests, verify that the current glass is free of cracks that could compromise structural rigidity or obstruct vision. Finally, ensure that the windscreen washer system is fully functional, as this was a specific failure point in 2024, and perform a cold start to listen for any unusual top-end engine noise or hesitation that might be associated with the high total mileage recorded.