2010 Mazda 6 2.0L Petrol · SW10 VRR

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Mazda 6, conducted on 2025-12-22, resulted in a failure with several critical and advisory defects, indicating a concerning deterioration in both structural and functional integrity. The vehicle’s maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the suspension system, brakes, and lighting components, with multiple major failures over the past five years. While there were passing MOTs in 2024 and 2023, the failures in 2022 and 2025 suggest a lack of timely maintenance, with critical components such as corroded suspension arms, severely worn brake pipes, and binding brake systems failing to meet roadworthiness standards. This trend underscores a need for immediate and thorough mechanical attention before the vehicle is put into service. The recorded mileage of 134,662 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 16 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,416 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and typical usage profile. However, the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the extended period between 2023 and 2025—raise concerns about whether the vehicle was driven regularly or left unused for prolonged periods. Extended idling or stationary conditions can accelerate wear on brakes, suspension components, and fluid degradation, as standing vehicles are prone to corrosion in brake lines, caliper binding, and suspension bushings. Additionally, low-mileage periods may have contributed to the observed deterioration in structural elements like suspension arms and brake pipes, which are more susceptible to corrosion when not in use. Given the recurring MOT failures and the critical nature of the defects identified, prospective buyers must conduct a meticulous pre-purchase inspection to assess the severity of the issues and plan for necessary repairs. The nearside front and rear suspension ball joints showing slight play in 2025 are a warning sign of progressive wear, which could lead to steering instability or uneven tyre wear if left unaddressed. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, as this may indicate further deterioration in the suspension arms or bushings. The major brake lagging and imbalanced brakes from 2025 suggest that the brake system is compromised, with potential binding calipers or worn brake pads causing uneven stopping performance. Inspect the brake discs for warping, scoring, or excessive thickness loss, and check for a spongy or pulsating pedal feel, which could indicate warped discs or air in the brake lines. The corroded brake pipes from 2022 and 2023 are particularly alarming, as this corrosion can compromise the integrity of the brake fluid path, leading to leaks or system failure. Visually inspect the brake lines for cracks, bulges, or signs of fluid leakage, and ensure there is no excessive corrosion along the flexi sections. The binding brakes from 2023 and 2025 may also require attention to the brake calipers and pads, as binding can result from seized components or excessive wear. Additionally, the registration plate deterioration is a minor but necessary concern, as it may affect legal compliance if the plate becomes unreadable. Beyond the MOT findings, buyers should verify the presence of service records, particularly for suspension and brake servicing, to confirm whether the vehicle has undergone necessary maintenance to mitigate the observed wear. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, focus on checking tyre tread depth, sidewall condition for cracking or perishing, and ensuring the 12V battery is in good health, as age-related battery failure is common in older vehicles. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, also inspect for signs of standing corrosion on the chassis, exhaust components, and undercarriage.