Just back from having my 53 Rex 231 62K service with Mazda. I bought it in Jan '07 with full service history and have driven less than 10k in the 10 months, 95% motorway and in the daylight. As the MOT is due I thought I would get it done at the same time. The nice Mazda chap called with the bad news about 3 hours later. It had failed the MOT, on what I asked, not expecting much. Then he hit me with it. The following need replacing - front and rear headlight sensors (£1501.54) , OSF & OSR Anti roll bar links (£153.00) , 2 x Bridgestone Potenza tyres (£320.00) , set of front pads (£155.38) , Cat (£1011.31), pollen filter (£67.56). What I want to know guys & girls, is this normal wear and tear? I think I can swallow CAT/tyres but not the sensors both going at the same time!!!!!!! The mechanics said they do rust once water gets in them. Any solution re the sensors (can they be adjusted to get through the MOT) please let me know before I sell the wife to pay for the work.

 

There is or was a TSB on the auto leveling headlight sensors. One for the front back on the driver side(s), If I recall right. All they do is replace the cap on it and your good. If they did not replace the plastic, they are no longer good and need to be replaced.
This is something you take up with Mazda of UK as its a Manufacturer issuse of **** design and not due to normal wear and tear.
The Potenza tires are way to much IMO you can get some wheels for less from discounttire.com or tirerack.com ect.
The CAT going out sucks but I think some of that was due to a miss fire. So you might want them to check your coils well they are at it.
The "Pollen Filter" is that the cabin filter? the one behind the glove box?
Anti roll bar links? your call. OEM or aftermarket.
As for the Pads. I would just replace them with OEM or MS Pads and resurfice the rotors. If they can.

 

Yes, check the sensor TSB.
Order parts you have to pay for from the USA.
BTW, What are the rule for import?