Does the Mazda RX-7 fail the MOT on suspension more than it should?
The Mazda RX-7 records 7.52 suspension failure items per 100 initial MOT tests (2019–2024), against 23.39 expected for a car of the same age mix: less than expected for its class and age (−15.87, 95% interval −17.44 to −14.30). It ranks 663 of 701 models on suspension (1 = most failures above expected).
Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · page updated 30 Sep 2026 · all models on suspension · check a Mazda RX-7 by registration
What exactly fails on suspension?
The most frequent DVSA defect wording in this group on the Mazda RX-7 is “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”, recorded 82 times in 2019–2024.
| DVSA defect wording | Items | Per 100 tests |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 82 | 2.25 |
| A suspension joint dust cover severely deteriorated | 67 | 1.84 |
| A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn | 53 | 1.45 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data (OGL v3.0) · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 3,644 (initial tests) · Method: failure items (major and minor) grouped by DVSA's defect tree; wordings with 30+ items · Updated: 30 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Other pages for this model
Mazda RX-7 by postcode area · Mazda RX-7 body, chassis and structure failures · Mazda RX-7 brakes failures · Mazda RX-7 vehicle identification failures · Mazda RX-7 lamps, reflectors and electrics failures · Mazda RX-7 noise, emissions and leaks failures · Mazda RX-7 seat belts and airbags failures · Mazda RX-7 steering failures · Mazda RX-7 tyres failures · Mazda RX-7 visibility failures