2009 Mazda 6 2.2L Diesel · WM09 DWV

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Mazda 6 was conducted on 2021-09-13 and resulted in a clean pass, though the vehicle retains a history of both minor and advisory defects across its MOT record. While the overall trend in the past five years shows stability, with the majority of tests passing without critical failures, the presence of persistent advisories—particularly related to corrosion of the front and rear sub-frames, rear suspension components, and wheel bearings—suggests underlying structural and mechanical wear that has not been fully addressed. The failure in 2018 due to an unsecurable driver’s seat seatbelt and the recurring rear brake issues in 2017 highlight areas where the vehicle’s safety systems may have degraded over time, indicating a need for closer inspection of both passenger restraints and braking components. The fact that some advisories have persisted since 2017 suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it may require proactive maintenance to mitigate long-term risks, such as sub-frame failure or excessive wheel bearing wear. The recorded mileage of 152,160 miles for a vehicle aged 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,951 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for its class. However, the MOT history does not reveal any dramatic spikes in mileage accumulation, which might suggest either a more cautious driving profile or periods of prolonged inactivity. At this stage, the wear progression from such usage is expected to be gradual, with consumables like brake pads and fluids showing signs of use rather than catastrophic failure. The absence of very high mileage in recent years also implies that the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme wear from heavy or aggressive use, though the corrosion advisories and minor bearing play indicate that the suspension and structural components have been exposed to environmental conditions over time, potentially accelerating degradation. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a pre-purchase examination are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and past failures. Focus on the front and rear sub-frames for signs of further corrosion, particularly around the welds and mounting points, as sub-frame failure could lead to catastrophic structural collapse. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the suspension during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or bushings in the rear suspension arms or lower control arms. The wheel bearings, particularly the offside front bearing, show slight play in past tests; inspect for excessive noise or vibration when turning, especially at low speeds, and check for oil leaks around the bearing housing. The rear brakes should be thoroughly examined for binding, uneven wear, or signs of corrosion on the discs and calipers, as the 2017 failures suggest potential issues with brake balance or hydraulic pressure. Test the parking brake engagement to ensure it holds the vehicle securely when applied, and check for any shuddering or pulsation when braking, which could indicate warped discs or hydraulic brake problems. In addition to the mechanical checks, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s exterior and interior for signs of age-related deterioration. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. Check the tyre tread depth and ensure there is no excessive wear pattern, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to electrical gremlins and poor starting performance. Verify that all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination or discolouration, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. Finally, review the service history for any missing or overdue maintenance, particularly for fluid top-ups, brake servicing, and suspension component replacements, as the MOT record suggests that some advisories may have been overlooked. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, check for standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the wheel arches and exhaust system, and ensure the exhaust emissions system is clear of blockages or corrosion, as the past advisories indicate ongoing wear concerns.