2010 Mazda 6 2.2L Petrol · SM10 WPL

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status, but the history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. The recent test in September 2023 at 126,800 miles resulted in a clean pass, which followed a failure just one day prior. That previous failure identified a major exhaust leak and an ABS fault lamp. While these specific issues were addressed to secure the subsequent pass, the recurring failures suggest the vehicle is only repaired when necessary to pass legal inspections rather than through scheduled preventative servicing. At 126,800 miles over 16 years, the Mazda has averaged approximately 8,000 miles per annum, which aligns with typical UK usage for a car of this age. The data shows consistent usage patterns between 2021 and 2023, with the vehicle covering roughly 31,000 miles in that two-year window. However, the lower mileage does not insulate the vehicle from age-related degradation, particularly regarding rubber components and metal oxidation, which were evident in the 2021 failure. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the structural integrity of the rear suspension. The August 2021 test at 95,556 miles flagged two rear suspension arms as seriously corroded and weakened, a critical structural failure. Even if these parts have since been replaced, it is vital to check for surface rust or thinning metal on the subframe and mounting points. Additionally, the parking brake efficiency should be tested, as it previously failed to meet the 50 percent of the required value. The ABS system and exhaust system also require scrutiny. Since the 2023 failure indicated these faults, the buyer should ensure the ABS warning lamp remains off and the exhaust is free of leaks at the manifold or joints. Given that the current date is June 2026, the last MOT is now expired by nine months, meaning a fresh inspection is mandatory to determine if new corrosion or mechanical wear has developed in the nearly three years since the last recorded test.