2018 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · SO18 VLZ

Consistent roadworthiness is the primary characteristic of this vehicle, which has maintained a clean pass record across six of its seven mandatory inspections. The only deviation from this pattern occurred in January 2024, when the examiner flagged the front tyres for uneven wear and noted thinning rear brake pads alongside surface pitting on the rear discs. Since that intervention, the vehicle successfully passed two subsequent tests, including the most recent examination on 9 June 2026, where no defects were recorded. This trajectory suggests that the components identified during the 2024 inspection were addressed, returning the vehicle to a compliant state without recurring issues. Accumulating 52,076 miles over an eight-year period results in an average annual usage of approximately 6,510 miles, a figure that aligns with standard domestic expectations for this class of vehicle. The consistent testing interval indicates that the car has remained in regular use throughout its life, avoiding the prolonged periods of inactivity that can often lead to seized brake components, perished rubber seals, or fuel system degradation. While the mileage is moderate, the mechanical focus should remain on the wear-and-tear items typical of a vehicle that has reached this stage of its lifecycle, particularly regarding the braking system and suspension geometry. Given the specific history of tyre wear noted in 2024, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front tyre treads for signs of irregular wear patterns, which can indicate underlying issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. During the test drive, listen closely for any knocking or metallic rattling noises when traversing uneven road surfaces, as these are common indicators of worn anti-roll bar links or suspension bushes. Ensure the steering remains neutral and does not pull to either side under braking, as uneven tyre wear is frequently linked to tracking misalignment that can prematurely scrub the inner or outer edges of the rubber. The previous advisory regarding the rear brake discs and pads necessitates a physical check of the braking performance. During a controlled stop, monitor the brake pedal for any pulsing or judder, which would suggest that the rear discs may have developed further pitting or warping since the last inspection. Additionally, verify that the electronic parking brake engages and releases smoothly without any grinding or hesitation. If the vehicle exhibits a scraping sound during low-speed braking, it may indicate that the rear pads are reaching the end of their service life, necessitating a visual inspection of the pad thickness through the alloy wheel spokes.