2004 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · CE04 WMM

Developing concerns regarding suspension component wear and underside corrosion define the mechanical profile of this Honda CR-V, with the most recent MOT passed on 14 October 2025 showing an emerging pattern of front-end play. While the vehicle has maintained a passing status since its 2024 failure involving lighting and washer systems, the transition from major failures to specific advisories regarding suspension bushes and ball joints suggests a shift toward wear-related maintenance requirements. The presence of recurring advisories for rear underside corrosion and brake pipe deterioration since 2022 indicates that structural and fluid-carrying components are subject to ongoing environmental degradation. The vehicle has covered 166,812 miles over its 22-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 7,582 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical long-term ownership for a vehicle of this age and suggests that components have been subjected to steady, moderate mechanical stress rather than extreme high-speed motorway use or prolonged periods of inactivity. This level of mileage typically necessitates close inspection of drivetrain components and rubber bushings, which are prone to fatigue over two decades of service, even when annual mileage remains relatively low. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the front suspension assembly following the 2025 advisories for the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and the front bush. During a test drive, listen for rhythmic knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds, as these symptoms often correlate with the play and wear noted in the official records. Additionally, the history of corroded brake pipes and rear underside corrosion requires a thorough visual inspection of the chassis and braking lines to ensure that the oxidation noted in 2024 has not progressed to a point that compromises structural integrity or fluid containment. The lighting and visibility history also warrants scrutiny, specifically regarding the repeated issues with headlamp aim and windscreen damage recorded between 2021 and 2025. While the 2025 test noted headlamp lens deterioration, the previous failures for incorrect beam projection suggest that the headlight adjustment mechanisms or mounting points should be checked for stability. Furthermore, the advisory regarding worn tyres in 2022 and 2023 indicates that tread depth and edge wear are periodic issues for this vehicle, so the current condition of all four tyres should be verified to ensure they are not nearing the legal limit or showing uneven wear patterns.