Mazda common problems and MOT failures

From 877,994 MOT tests in 2024, 18.3% of Mazda vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.

Top Mazda MOT failure reasons

#	Problem	Occurrences	% of failures
1	suspension pin, bush or joint worn	31,700	20.0%
2	spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened	16,158	10.2%
3	tyre seriously damaged	15,733	9.9%
4	the strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired	14,913	9.4%
5	the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements	14,460	9.1%
6	lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning	14,363	9.1%
7	brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm	13,706	8.6%
8	tyre tread depth outside legal limits	13,435	8.5%
9	wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen	12,182	7.7%
10	suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc	11,842	7.5%

What this means if you're buying a Mazda

The single most common MOT failure for Mazda is suspension pin, bush or joint worn, accounting for 20% of all failure items. Suspension repairs typically cost £150–£400 depending on the component.

These figures are from real MOT inspections — they show what testers actually find wrong with Mazda vehicles. If you're viewing a used Mazda, it's worth checking these areas specifically.

Mazda models by MOT pass rate

Lowest pass rates first — these models have the most testable issues.

Model	Tests	Pass rate
5	15,846	69.6%
Bongo	16,480	69.7%
2	187,376	79.3%
3	175,205	79.5%
6	99,587	79.7%
Mx-5	167,686	82.2%
Cx-5	98,091	86.9%
Cx-3	33,253	89.9%

Buying a specific Mazda? Check the individual vehicle's MOT history for free on GOV.UK to see its actual test results, advisories, and mileage readings.

Check MOT history on GOV.UK