2012 Mazda 5 2.0L Diesel · YC12 AEW

The vehicle cleared its most recent MOT on 22 November 2024 at 140,565 miles, registering only slight play in the nearside front track‑rod end ball joint and the offside front anti‑roll‑bar ball joint. Those items were flagged in the preceding test on 20 November 2024 and have persisted, but no new safety‑critical defects appeared, indicating a generally stable maintenance pattern after earlier, more extensive failures. At 14 years old the car has accumulated 140,565 miles, averaging just over 10,000 miles per year. The mileage rose from 118,830 miles in November 2022 to the current figure in November 2024, a consistent increase of roughly 10,800 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. No significant mileage gaps are evident, suggesting regular annual testing and relatively continuous operation. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension joints that have shown repeated slight play; a thorough inspection of the track‑rod end and anti‑roll‑bar bushings for wear or corrosion is advisable. Although brake pads were thin in 2023, the 2024 pass recorded no brake‑related failures, so measuring current pad thickness and checking disc condition remain prudent. Tyre tread should be verified, given past under‑depth warnings on both front and rear wheels. The 2021 oil‑leak failure and 2017 power‑steering fluid deficiency warrant a visual check for any fresh leaks around the engine and steering rack. Finally, confirm that the exhaust system does not emit visible smoke, as the 2024 failure cited diesel particulate filter emissions, and ensure the child‑seat mounting area is unobstructed for a complete belt inspection.