2013 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Diesel · VK63 EOV

A recurring concern around the front suspension and steering linkage is the defining feature of this Mazda's MOT history. Across the recorded tests, the offside track rod end dust cover appeared damaged in the most recent pass on 19 November 2025, while the nearside track rod end was previously flagged with excessive play at the 11 November 2024 test, resulting in a Major failure on that occasion. Although the vehicle subsequently passed after repair, the appearance of further deterioration on the opposite side one year later suggests the front steering components are subject to ongoing wear. Additionally, the 2024 test recorded advisories on both front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, indicating uneven or accelerated front axle tyre wear that warrants investigation into alignment, suspension geometry, or component condition. The earlier 2022 advisory regarding a cracked offside front mirror is a cosmetic rather than mechanical concern and carries no roadworthiness implications. The recorded mileage of 81,618 miles across approximately thirteen years equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 6,278 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, with annual tests consistently recorded from 2022 onwards, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for extended periods. This continuous usage pattern means the mechanical components have experienced normal operational wear without the additional risks associated with long-term standing, such as seized brakes, deteriorated rubber, or flat-spotted tyres. The absence of any mileage recorded between tests is unremarkable given the annual MOT cycle. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension and steering assembly should be the primary focus of any pre-purchase inspection. The track rod end ball joint failures and advisories on both sides suggest that the linkage bushes, ball joints, and possibly the front anti-roll bar drop links or wishbone bushes are nearing the end of their service life. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, and pay particular attention to any looseness or vibration through the steering wheel, particularly under braking or during direction changes. Uneven or feathered front tyre wear, pulling to one side under braking, or a wandering steering sensation at speed would indicate that further work is required beyond what has already been addressed. Given the pattern of component replacement on both sides within a twelve-month window, budgeting for replacement of the remaining track rod end and a four-wheel geometry alignment would be prudent. A thorough physical inspection with the vehicle raised on a ramp is strongly advisable to assess the condition of the front subframe mounting points, anti-roll bar bushes, and any corrosion around suspension turrets, none of which have been flagged in the MOT record but warrant checking on a thirteen-year-old vehicle. Inspect the engine bay and underside for any signs of oil seepage from the power steering rack, as steering component wear of this nature can place additional load on the rack itself. Verify that the front tyres currently fitted are of matching brand, size, and tread depth across the axle, as the previous edge wear may recur if the underlying geometry issue has not been fully resolved. Finally, confirm the age and condition of the braking system, including the front discs and pads, as the increased steering component wear may correlate with heavier braking loads typical of a CX-5 of this mileage and age.