2004 Mazda E Series: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the Mazda E Series first registered in 2004: we looked at the 107 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 107 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2004 Mazda E Series MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2004 Mazda E Series MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Suspension36% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Brakes34% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Lights and electrics34% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Tyres26% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Oil and fluid leaks25% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
- Rust and bodywork20% of testsRough price £150–£1,000
At the viewing: Check the sills, wheel arches and underneath for rust, and look along the panels for uneven gaps or paint.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2004 Mazda E Series
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a Mazda E Series?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Mazda E Series compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 340 | Lights and electrics 34% |
| 2015 | 318 | Suspension 42% |
| 2014 | 111 | Suspension 44% |
| 2002 | 173 | Suspension 46% |
| 2001 | 319 | Suspension 52% |
| 2000 | 302 | Suspension 49% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of Mazda E Series cars first registered in 2004. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score