2016 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · SL66 LVC

A dominant theme across the MOT history is progressive corrosion and wear of suspension‑related components, compounded by recurring tyre tread limits. The latest test on 29 August 2026 recorded a pass but left four advisories – off‑side rear inner tyre near the legal limit, rear brake pipe corrosion, and front and rear suspension corrosion that is not yet deemed structurally weakened. Earlier in the same weekend a failure was logged for the front lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust covers, indicating that the dust‑cover issue has persisted for several years and has only recently been downgraded to an advisory. The record shows a steady accumulation of corrosion advisories on sub‑frames, brake pipes and suspension arms, with occasional major failures such as a fractured rear coil spring in 2025 and an insecure anti‑roll bar linkage in 2024. At 111 963 mi the car averages just over 11 000 mi per year, which sits within a normal usage envelope for a ten‑year‑old family hatchback. The MOT chronology reveals no large gaps in testing – annual checks have been performed each August – suggesting the mileage figure is reasonably representative of actual use. That mileage level places the vehicle well into the wear phase for consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and suspension bushings, meaning the observed tyre tread limits and the corrosion on brake pipes are consistent with the distance covered. For a prospective buyer the most immediate concerns are the suspension dust‑covers and the associated corrosion. On a test drive listen for metallic clunking or knocking when traversing bumps, especially on the front corners, and feel for any looseness or play in the steering rack. Inspect the lower suspension arms for any visible rust or cracked dust‑covers; a compromised cover can allow grit to infiltrate the ball joint, accelerating wear. The rear anti‑roll bar linkage flagged as insecure in 2024 should be checked for tightness and any signs of movement under cornering loads. The front and rear sub‑frames, while currently classified as “not seriously weakened,” exhibit surface rust – probe for any pitting that could indicate deeper degradation, and watch for any unusual chassis flex or squeaks during acceleration and braking. Brake system integrity also warrants close scrutiny. The repeated advisories for corroded brake pipes on both front and rear axles suggest the metal has been exposed to moisture for an extended period; inspect the pipes for surface rust, cracks or signs of leakage, and verify that the brake pedal feels firm without sponginess. The 2025 failure for a 33 % front brake imbalance points to potential uneven pad wear or caliper sticking – during a road test, note any pull to one side when applying the brakes and listen for uneven squeal. Finally, the headlamp aim failures recorded in 2025 should be confirmed; mis‑aimed lamps can reduce night‑time visibility and may require adjustment. While the registration plate issues are minor, ensure the plate is legible and securely mounted. Addressing these specific items before purchase will give a clearer picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of remedial work.