2018 Honda HR-V 1.6L Diesel · AP67 BWH

The 2018 Honda HR-V’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2026-01-14 was passed with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failures in December 2021 and January 2023. While the vehicle has consistently passed MOTs since 2024, the 2023 test revealed a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly in the suspension, brakes, and tyres—that suggest underlying wear progression. The failure in 2023 highlighted critical issues such as worn rear brake discs, low brake pads, and deteriorating rear suspension bushes, which were not addressed prior to the test, indicating either delayed maintenance or insufficient preventative care. The fact that these defects resurfaced in 2021 and 2023, despite passing earlier MOTs, underscores the importance of thorough mechanical inspections beyond just the MOT pass/fail criteria. The vehicle’s mileage of 174,935 miles at 8 years old represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 21,867 miles per year, which is notably elevated for its class and age. Such mileage accumulation accelerates wear on consumable components like brake pads, suspension bushes, and tyres, as well as potential fluid degradation and structural fatigue in longer-term components. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the car has been in regular, possibly heavy use, which could explain the observed wear patterns. However, the rapid mileage increase may also reflect operational demands such as commuting, towing, or off-road driving, all of which impose additional stress on drivetrain and suspension systems. Given the recurring advisories and wear-related defects in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a comprehensive mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the rear suspension, particularly the wishbone rear bushes, which were deemed deteriorated in 2023 and may have worsened since. Listen for clunking noises from the rear suspension during cornering or over bumps, as this often indicates bush wear or coil spring failure. Inspect the rear brake system for uneven wear patterns, grinding noises, or pulsation when braking, which could signal worn discs or binding calipers. Additionally, check the brake fluid level and condition—high mileage and prolonged use can lead to fluid degradation, causing pedal sponginess or anti-slip provision failure, as seen in the 2023 failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, verify the tyre condition thoroughly. The front tyres were close to the legal limit in 2021, and the offside rear tyre had embedded stone cuts, which may have progressed. Inspect for uneven wear, sidewall cracking, or tread depth variations, as these can indicate alignment issues or suspension problems. The rear wiper split and screw-in tyre advisories from 2023 should be addressed promptly, as a split wiper blade can compromise visibility during adverse weather, and a poorly fitted tyre could lead to handling instability. Lastly, check the battery health, as prolonged standing or high mileage can accelerate corrosion in terminals or a failing starter motor. Test the starter and alternator to ensure they are functioning correctly, and inspect for signs of corrosion or fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the exhaust system and undercarriage, which can exacerbate wear over time. If the car has been in storage, consider a full fluid top-up, including brake, coolant, and differential fluids, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage.