1999 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · T554 HBW
1999 Mazda MX-5 (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01 Apr 1999. Recorded mileage 78,956 miles. MOT valid until 18 Jun 2027. Taxed until 01 Oct 2026.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1999
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 18 Jun 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Oct 2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 78,956 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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T554 HBW Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 19/06/2026
- 78,956 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
T554 HBW MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1999 Mazda Mx-5 (T554 HBW) between February 2024 and June 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 19 June 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (4 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (4 issues), Windscreen (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Exhaust carbon monoxide content after 2nd fast idle exceeds default limits (8.2.1.2 (b))”; “Rear Brakes imbalanced across an axle (1.2.1 (b) (i))”; “Offside Front Anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”.
T554 HBW Mileage History
- 23/02/202472,098 mi
- 11/04/202575,006 mi+2,908 mi
- 17/05/202575,028 mi+22 mi
- 20/06/202575,111 mi+83 mi
- 19/06/202678,956 mi+3,845 mi
Average of roughly 2,957 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Approach this 1999 Mazda MX-5 with caution and a thorough pre-purchase inspection. The recent MOT history shows two failures in 2025 for brake and emissions faults, though it has since passed and covered only modest mileage for its age.
Given the 2025 failures for rear brake imbalance, worn offside rear disc and below-requirement service brake efficiency, insist on proof that these were properly repaired rather than just patched for the retest. A fresh independent inspection of the braking system and a check of the exhaust and emissions work is sensible before committing. The rear sub-frame corrosion flagged at the 2025 and 2026 tests is a known structural concern on older MX-5s, so examine it on a ramp and negotiate accordingly if it is worsening. Confirm the windscreen damage noted in 2025 has not spread and that the reverse light fault from the April 2025 failure is resolved. With no service history provided, budget for a full service and ask the seller for any maintenance records, as the car is 27 years old.
As a 1.8-litre petrol roadster, the MX-5 of this era is relatively cheap to run, with classic car insurance typically in a lower group than modern performance cars and road tax based on pre-2001 emissions rules. Fuel economy is modest for a light convertible, though exact figures are not in the provided data. Typical maintenance on a 1999 model includes routine servicing, suspension bush and brake upkeep, and potential sub-frame treatment; annual running costs including fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance are estimated at £800-£1,000. The 2025 emissions failures suggest the exhaust may need ongoing attention, which could add to costs.
The MOT failures in 2025 specifically recorded offside rear brake disc worn and pitted, rear brake imbalance across axle 2, and service brake efficiency below requirements, so test the brakes for pulling or weakness and inspect all discs and pads. The same tests showed exhaust CO exceeding limits and a minor exhaust gas leak at the back box join, so examine the entire exhaust for leaks, rust and proper emissions compliance. Rear sub-frame corrosion was noted at both the 2025 pass and 2026 pass as not seriously weakened, but on a 1999 car this should be closely checked underneath for progression. Also verify the anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover and reverse light flagged in April 2025 have been remedied, and assess the windscreen chip recorded in 2025.
This silver 1.8-litre MX-5 (T554HBW) first registered in April 1999 has covered 78,956 miles as of its June 2026 MOT pass, which is low for a 27-year-old sports car. The MOT record shows a clean pass in 2024 and 2026, but two failures in April and May 2025 for brake imbalance, worn discs, emissions exceedance and an exhaust leak. The 2025 pass still noted rear sub-frame corrosion and windscreen damage, both of which warrant closer inspection.
No aggregate MOT reliability data is available for the Mazda MX-5, so assessment is limited to this vehicle's own history.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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