Mazda Mx-5 +: suspension MOT failures
Suspension was a recorded failure area in 8.1% of Mazda Mx-5 + MOT tests in this dataset. It is most prominent on 2003, 2005 cars.
Worn drop links, bushes, springs or shocks — listen for knocks over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear. Typical repair cost: £150–£450 per corner (rough UK ballpark, not a quote).
Suspension failures by year
| Model year | Tests | Fail rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 4,646 | 8.4% |
| 1996 | 7,376 | 8.5% |
| 1997 | 11,839 | 8.7% |
| 1998 | 16,691 | 7.8% |
| 1999 | 18,610 | 8.3% |
| 2000 | 18,689 | 8.4% |
| 2002 | 21,657 | 10.1% |
| 2003 | 28,425 | 11.9% |
| 2004 | 22,072 | 9.6% |
| 2005 | 21,938 | 10.4% |
| 2009 | 25,365 | 10.4% |
Methodology & source. Dataset: DVSA MOT testing data (2021,2022,2023,2024,2025). Data last updated 2026-07-01. Figures reflect MOT-testable defects only — read the methodology for how these are calculated and what they don't measure.