2010 Mazda 2 1.5L Petrol · YD60 VLC

The Mazda 2 presents a mixed but broadly improving maintenance picture through its recent MOT record. The most recent test on 25 November 2025 at 67,104 miles passed, and the severity of advisories has reduced compared with the double test event of November 2024. That earlier session saw a failure for snapped rear shock absorber top mounts and a serious fluid leak on the offside rear unit, followed by a pass the same day, indicating those critical suspension components were replaced between the two submissions. Since then, no further suspension defects have appeared, suggesting that repair has held. The trend is therefore one of resolution rather than escalation, though several minor advisories persist. The vehicle's recorded mileage tells a story of exceptionally low use. At 67,104 miles across roughly 16 years, the annual average sits at approximately 4,194 miles. The progression is consistent: 61,626 miles in November 2023, 64,163 miles in November 2024, and 67,104 miles in November 2025, giving a steady accumulation of around 2,500 to 2,900 miles per year in recent years. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer record, which supports the appearance of genuine, low-mileage use. The low annual distance does mean the car has likely spent extended periods stationary, a factor worth bearing in mind when assessing rubber components and brake condition. Buyers should focus their physical inspection on the areas the MOT record flags repeatedly. The fuel tank exhaust shield has been insecure at every test from November 2023 onward, a minor but persistent issue that may point to a broken mounting clip or corroded bracket. The offside registration plate lamp has also been inoperative across multiple tests, suggesting a wiring or bulb holder fault that has gone unrepaired. The auxiliary belt was noted as cracking in November 2025, so its current condition and the serviceability of the tensioner should be verified. The windscreen has carried a damage advisory for at least three years; confirm the chip or crack has not spread beyond repair limits. The snapped shock absorber top mounts from late 2024 are the most significant mechanical event in the record. Both rear units failed simultaneously, which can indicate corrosion of the top mount seating or impact damage from potholes. A buyer should have the rear suspension inspected on a ramp, checking for fresh corrosion around the mount points, correct torque on the top nuts, and even damping performance. The repeated appearance of nails in tyres across 2024 and 2025 suggests the previous owner drove frequently over rural or debris-streaked roads. Inspect all four tyre sidewalls for embedded objects and uneven wear, and check the condition of the spare if one is fitted. Given the low mileage and the age of rubber bushes, brake hoses, and seals, a thorough underbody inspection for perished or split components is advisable before purchase.