2018 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · SM18 YLP

The vehicle’s most recent MOT, passed on 14 July 2025 at 65,889 miles , reveals a concerning pattern of deferred maintenance rather than a stable roadworthiness trend. The tester recorded excessive wear on front brake discs and thin rear brake pads , alongside perishing rear tyres , corroded rear coil springs , and a defective rear windscreen wiper blade —all issues that should have prompted immediate attention. While no major structural failures were noted, the recurring advisories (tyre damage, suspension corrosion, and brake wear) suggest the vehicle has been driven despite known deficiencies. The under-tray modification also warrants scrutiny for potential compliance with emissions or structural integrity standards. Compared to previous tests, the 2024 and 2023 MOTs were clean, indicating these faults are recent developments rather than long-standing neglect. The mileage progression of 8,236 miles annually aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the gap between tests —consistently around 365 days —implies adherence to the legal MOT cycle rather than proactive servicing. Notably, the 2021 test at 27,474 miles flagged front tyres worn to near-legal limits , yet the vehicle accumulated another 11,635 miles before the next MOT, raising questions about whether interim checks were performed. The 2022 test at 39,110 miles introduced a nail in the near-side rear tyre , a minor but avoidable issue that could have escalated if not addressed promptly. The absence of major advisories in earlier tests contrasts sharply with the 2025 findings , suggesting a deterioration in maintenance standards in the past year. A buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the brake system , particularly the rear calipers and discs , given the thin pads and disc wear noted in July 2025. The corroded rear coil springs indicate potential suspension instability, and the perishing rear tyres —now over 10,000 miles older —pose a safety risk if they have not been replaced. The front brake pads , last noted as thin in 2022 , should be checked for uneven wear or glazing, while the near-side rear tyre nail from 2022 may have compromised structural integrity if not repaired. Finally, the under-tray modification should be verified for compliance with emissions regulations, as aftermarket changes can affect both performance and legality. Given the sudden emergence of multiple advisories in the most recent test, a thorough check of suspension bushes, subframe mounts, and exhaust system integrity is advisable to rule out hidden corrosion or damage.