2021 Honda CR-V 2.0L Hybrid electric · AE71 SXM

The mechanical profile of this 2021 Honda CR-V is dominated by a string of minor electrical and lighting defects rather than any structural or wear-related concerns, making its MOT history broadly reassuring for a prospective buyer. The most recent test on 30 September 2025 records a clean pass with no advisories, indicating that any issues identified at that same-day inspection have been rectified and the vehicle met all roadworthiness standards at the time of retest. Prior to that, the vehicle passed without defect in October 2024, and the only recorded failures across the documented history are a pair of headlamp aim failures deemed dangerous on both the nearside and offside lamps on 30 September 2025, alongside a major failure for a non-functional rear fog lamp on 17 September 2024. This pattern suggests a car that is mechanically sound but has demonstrated intermittent issues with simple lighting circuit faults, which are typically inexpensive to remedy but warrant confirmation that the underlying wiring, switches, and connectors are in good order. Against a typical annual mileage of around 6,314 miles over its five-year life, this CR-V sits comfortably within the expected usage bracket for its age, showing neither the very low accumulation that can hint at prolonged standing periods nor the high figures that accelerate wear on clutches, brake components, and suspension consumables. The testing cadence has been broadly annual with no significant multi-year gaps, indicating the vehicle has remained in continuous road use rather than being laid up, which is favourable for preserving the integrity of seals, brake systems, and battery health. The mileage progression between tests does not reveal any unusual spikes or discrepancies, providing confidence that the recorded odometer figure is consistent with the vehicle's apparent age and condition. Given the rear fog lamp failure, a careful buyer should physically verify operation of all rear lighting including the fog lamp, brake lamps, reverse lamp, and number plate illumination, as electrical gremlins in lighting circuits can sometimes point to broader wiring loom deterioration or earth strap corrosion, particularly around the rear hatch area. On a test drive, pay attention to any flickering or intermittent illumination, especially over bumps which can expose loose connectors. With the headlamp aim defects, confirm that both headlamps are correctly aligned and that the adjustment mechanism is secure, as a drifting aim can indicate worn adjustment hardware or even subtle evidence of front-end impact that has shifted the mounting points. Beyond the recorded items, the general lack of advisories on suspension, braking, or corrosion components is encouraging for a vehicle approaching five years of age, particularly one frequently exposed to winter road conditions. Nonetheless, a physical inspection should include close examination of the rear brake discs and pads, given that low-mileage vehicles used predominantly for short urban journeys often suffer from corroded rear discs due to insufficient heat cycling. Listen for any clonks or knocking from the suspension over uneven surfaces, as even relatively low-mileage cars can develop worn anti-roll bar bushes or top mount bearings. Finally, inspect the underside for any developing corrosion on subframe and suspension components, and confirm there are no oil leaks from the engine or transmission seals, which can become evident even at modest mileages if the vehicle has been subjected to frequent short trips and cold starts.