2003 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · ST03 EDV

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 9 April 2025 at 71,300 miles with no defects recorded, indicating current roadworthiness. The maintenance trend shows improvement: after two consecutive failures in April 2023 (18th at 53,316 miles and 26th at 53,317 miles) the car achieved a clean test the following year, and the 2024 failures (15th at 60,258 miles and 16th at 60,274 miles) were resolved within a day, leading to a stable, defect‑free status through 2025. Mileage accumulation relative to the car’s age is notably low at roughly 3,100 miles per year over 23 years, which suggests light use or extended periods of storage. The gap between the April 2023 tests saw virtually no mileage increase, while the year to April 2024 added about 7,000 miles, and the period to April 2025 added roughly 11,000 miles, indicating a later increase in usage. The MOT record is sparse, with only five entries spanning the vehicle’s life, but the data is clean otherwise. A prospective buyer should inspect the suspension bushes and coil springs for corrosion or wear, as low‑mileage cars can still develop bushing degradation if stored improperly. Brake components, particularly the rear calipers and discs, merit close scrutiny; the two 2023 failures, despite no recorded defects, may hint at intermittent binding or uneven pad wear that could have been missed. Check the under‑body for rust spots, especially around the sills and wheel arches, and examine the exhaust for any signs of corrosion or leaks. Tyre tread depth and pressure should be verified, as uneven wear can occur even with low mileage if the car has been stationary for long periods. Finally, review the service history for any missed保养 intervals, as the pattern of failures suggests possible lapses in routine maintenance. Overall, the car’s recent MOT confirms it is roadworthy, yet the intermittent failures and the later spike in mileage indicate a need for a thorough professional inspection before purchase. A focused examination of suspension, brakes, rust, and tyre condition will provide the buyer with a realistic assessment of the vehicle’s true mechanical state.