2004 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · FT04 AJV

The 2004 Honda Jazz shows a stable roadworthiness trend over the past five MOT cycles, with the most recent test on 16 December 2024 at 71,032 miles confirming no defects. This clean record suggests the vehicle has avoided major mechanical or structural failings during annual inspections, though the lack of advisories or defects does not preclude hidden wear—particularly in high-stress areas like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers. The final pass in December 2024 was just five months ago, which is acceptable but not ideal for a vehicle of this age; a test within the last three months would provide stronger reassurance of current condition. The recorded mileage of 71,032 miles over 22 years equates to approximately 3,229 miles annually, a figure well below the average for a vehicle of this age. This low mileage could indicate prolonged periods of inactivity or very light use, which may have mitigated some wear. However, the gap between the failed test on 12 December 2022 (70,172 miles) and the subsequent pass on 14 December 2022 (70,195 miles) suggests either a brief period of storage or minimal driving between tests. The consistency of mileage increments—around 400–500 miles per year—implies the vehicle has not been subjected to aggressive use, but it also raises questions about whether critical components like tyres, brakes, or fluids have been properly maintained during these low-mileage periods. Given the absence of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which are prone to degradation over two decades of use. The brakes, while never failing an MOT, may exhibit uneven wear or binding calipers—common in lightly driven vehicles where brake dust accumulation goes unaddressed. Structural integrity should also be scrutinised, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, where corrosion can develop silently. Finally, the engine bay should be examined for leaks, worn hoses, or degraded belts, as these are often overlooked in low-mileage cars but can lead to sudden failures. The lack of advisories in recent tests does not guarantee these areas are flawless.