MAZDA 2 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 14,817 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
14,817
Avg Mileage
97,282 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,722
Is the 2008 MAZDA 2 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 16 years old, 70% of MAZDA 2s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 14,817 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 97,282 miles.
How does the 2008 MAZDA 2 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 MAZDA 2 has 97,282 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MAZDA 2?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2008 model has the lowest at 70%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2008 MAZDA 2 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA 2 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 97% | 30 | 25,674 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 12,113 | 27,997 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 12,473 | 35,410 mi |
| 2017 | 90% | 11,574 | 42,686 mi |
| 2016 | 87% | 15,776 | 51,000 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 15,877 | 57,096 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 14,202 | 60,500 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 14,893 | 67,601 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 15,653 | 71,124 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 18,883 | 77,682 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 22,897 | 86,346 mi |
| 2009 | 71% | 22,733 | 91,854 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 14,817 | 97,282 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 4,816 | 90,403 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 2,297 | 83,579 mi |
| 2005 | 71% | 1,957 | 86,126 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 1,546 | 89,679 mi |
| 2003 | 75% | 646 | 91,192 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA 2?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 MAZDA 2
The 2008 MAZDA 2 is a small family car with a 1250cc petrol engine. 14,817 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 97,282 miles at 16 years old, MAZDA 2 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 MAZDA 2 Fuel Costs
The 1250cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2008 MAZDA 2?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,722 (£144/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MAZDA 2 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA 2s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 MAZDA 2
At 16 years old, the MAZDA 2 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. With 14,817 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 MAZDA 2
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 109,443 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2009) 74% pass rate (+4%) from 105,193 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2010) 74% pass rate (+4%) from 99,909 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2010) 67% pass rate (-3%) from 60,994 tests