2006 Mazda RX-8 1.3L Petrol · VN06 AMK

The 2025‑12‑16 MOT at 86,510 miles records a failure, rendering the vehicle not roadworthy. The record shows a worsening maintenance trend, with recurring binding brake notices, a fractured rear coil spring, structural rust on the wing and sill, and persistent ABS and ESC warning lamps indicating ongoing electronic faults. Mileage accumulation is modest relative to the car’s 20‑year age, averaging about 4,300 miles per year. However, the data reveal irregular intervals: a minimal increase of 805 miles between the 2020 and 2021 tests, followed by steady growth to 83,366 miles by October 2024, and a further 3,144‑mile jump to the most recent failure. This pattern suggests periods of low usage interspersed with more intensive driving in the past year. Recurring issues point to specific areas requiring close inspection: rear suspension components, especially the coil spring and bushes, should be examined for cracks or wear; rear brake calipers and discs must be checked for binding or excessive wear; structural rust on the wings and sills needs assessment for compromised rigidity; the ABS and ESC warning lights indicate electronic system faults that should be diagnosed; and the corroded exhaust clamp and undersealed underbody warrant verification for hidden decay. Tyre wear, particularly the near‑side rear tyre noted as close to the legal limit in 2024, also merits attention. A thorough pre‑purchase inspection focusing on these suspension, brake, structural, and electronic components will determine whether the documented defects are isolated failures or signs of systemic neglect.