Mazda MX-30 common problems and MOT failures

What usually goes wrong with a Mazda MX-30?

We haven’t found widely reported faults for the Mazda MX-30 in the UK buying guides we use yet. That doesn’t mean it has none, so check the car carefully and look at the MOT weak spots below.

Common Mazda MX-30 MOT failures to check

Parts flagged at MOT well above the usual rate for cars the same age. From the DVSA’s results for every MOT done in Great Britain during 2025.

• Shock absorbers

  up to 7.7× usual

  Stands out on cars registered in 2021 and 2022.

  Rough price £200–£300 (pair, average rear to front) ClickMechanic

  At the viewing: Push down hard on each corner. It should bounce once and settle. Look for oil on the shock absorber body.

• Brake discs

  up to 1.9× usual

  Stands out on cars registered in 2021.

  Rough price £150–£350 our estimate

  At the viewing: Look through the wheel at the brake disc: a deep lip at the edge or heavy scoring means they're worn. Feel for judder when braking.

Mazda MX-30 MOT pass rate by year

Of the years since 2005 with plenty of MOT tests, the 2021 Mazda MX-30 did best (90% passed first time, 3 points above all 2021 cars) and the 2022 did worst (91%, 2 points above all 2022 cars). Older cars fail more, so compare each year with all cars registered the same year.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a Mazda MX-30

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Any recent work on the shock absorbers? (Flagged at MOT 7.7× as often on the Mazda MX-30 as on other cars the same age.)
2. Any recent work on the brake discs? (Flagged at MOT 1.9× as often on the Mazda MX-30 as on other cars the same age.)
3. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?