2004 Honda Civic 1.6L Petrol · BF54 NXR

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a clear shift toward mechanical and structural neglect. While the most recent test in January 2026 at 105,714 miles resulted in a pass, it introduced new advisories regarding an oil leak, an exhaust leak, and play in the offside rear anti-roll bar linkage. These issues follow recurring faults from previous years, indicating that the car is being maintained to the minimum standard required to pass inspections rather than undergoing proactive preventative care. The mileage profile is notably low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,800 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-intensity usage, moving from 96,465 miles in early 2023 to 103,334 miles in early 2025, and then another 2,380 miles by early 2026. This low annual mileage often explains the age-related degradation seen in rubber components, such as the perishing the nearside rear tyre noted in the 2025 test. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the underbody, as general corrosion has been flagged as an ongoing concern in both 2025 and 2026. The recurring issue of fluctuating service brakes both front and rear, noted since 2023, suggests thin brake discs or sticking calipers that likely require replacement. Additionally, the persistent oil leak and exhaust leak identified in the 2026 record should be investigated to ensure they are not masking more significant mechanical failures. The play in the anti-roll bar linkage requires immediate attention to maintain vehicle handling stability.