2009 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · AV09 HKP

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Honda CR-V occurred on 2026-06-09, where it passed with two minor defects—one relating to the offside obligatory indirect vision device and another indicating severe deterioration of both front suspension ball joint dust covers—and one advisory for rear exhaust flange corrosion. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2024, the pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures over the past seven years suggests a gradual but persistent decline in structural and mechanical integrity. The front suspension components, in particular, have been flagged multiple times for corrosion and deteriorated dust covers, indicating ongoing wear that may compromise long-term reliability if not addressed promptly. The presence of a major failure in 2024—particularly the insecure track rod end ball joints—highlights a critical issue that, if left unchecked, could escalate into a costly repair or even a safety hazard. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 106,009 miles at 17 years old represents an average annual usage of approximately 6,236 miles, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for its age. However, the absence of significant mileage spikes or prolonged periods of high usage suggests that the car may have been driven more lightly than a similarly aged vehicle in active service. This could imply reduced wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids, but it also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to prolonged standing, which can accelerate corrosion—especially in the exhaust system and suspension components—as evidenced by the repeated advisories. The lack of high-mileage wear patterns, such as uneven tyre wear or excessive brake dust, may indicate that the CR-V has been maintained within a more controlled usage regime, but this does not absolve the need for thorough inspection of high-stress areas like the suspension and exhaust. Given the recurring advisories and minor failures, particularly the front suspension ball joint dust covers and track rod end ball joints, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection. Check for signs of binding or excessive play in the suspension, which could indicate worn or broken ball joints, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. The front suspension arms also show corrosion, so inspect for cracks or weakened mounting points that could compromise structural integrity under load. On the test drive, monitor for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and listen for unusual noises from the exhaust system, particularly when accelerating or braking, to identify potential leaks or joint failures. The rear exhaust flange corrosion is a persistent concern; any signs of rust through the flange or leaks could lead to emissions non-compliance or carbon monoxide ingress, so this should be addressed immediately. For the buyer’s practical inspection, given the vehicle’s age and moderate mileage, focus on the following areas. First, examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at lower mileages due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Check the tread depth and look for irregular wear, which may indicate alignment or suspension problems that have not yet manifested in MOT failures. The battery should be tested for voltage and charge capacity, as standing vehicles can lead to sulphate buildup and reduced lifespan, particularly in older models like this CR-V. Inspect the brake system for corrosion on discs and calipers, especially near the rear where standing can accelerate rust, and check for binding or excessive play in the calipers, which may indicate worn brake pads or hydraulic issues. Finally, verify that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing—oil, brake fluid, and coolant—since these degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the recent MOT results, a thorough mechanical check should be scheduled within the next 12 months to address the suspension and exhaust concerns before they escalate into more costly repairs.