2012 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · DG12 HNE

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 14 April 2026, following an earlier failure on 31 March 2026 that was attributable solely to an inoperative offside rear fog lamp, which is a trivial electrical rectification rather than a mechanical concern. Looking at the broader history, the trend is one of gradually accumulating suspension-related advisories and minor defects rather than any sudden or serious deterioration. The earliest recorded test in 2022 was entirely clean, but from 2023 onwards a pattern has emerged around anti-roll bar linkages, suspension arm bushes, ball joint dust covers, and shock absorber corrosion. The pace of new items appearing each year has not accelerated dramatically, suggesting the vehicle is being maintained to a broadly acceptable used-car standard for its age and mileage, but the buyer should be aware that the suspension and undercarriage are now entering a phase where age-related wear is becoming more pronounced. With approximately 165,974 miles recorded over 14 years, the annual usage of around 11,855 miles is very close to the UK national average, indicating no prolonged standing periods and no particularly gruelling high-mileage accumulation. This regular usage pattern is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as consistent running keeps seals lubricated, prevents moisture accumulation in the exhaust and brake systems, and maintains battery health. The even mileage distribution also means that wear on major drivetrain and suspension components has been progressive rather than the result of severe short-term abuse. However, the cumulative mileage itself is high, and on a 2012 Honda CR-V with this odometer reading, items such as the timing chain, clutch, alternator, starter motor, and air conditioning compressor are all in the higher-risk bracket for replacement. The recurring advisories across multiple test entries point clearly to the suspension and anti-roll bar assemblies as the primary area requiring attention. The nearside front suspension D bush and the nearside and offside rear anti-roll bar linkages have been flagged repeatedly, with the dust covers on the anti-roll bar ball joints now recorded as severely deteriorated and one instance of slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint. These components should be inspected closely on a raised ramp or over a pit if possible, with particular attention to any splitting, cracking, or movement beyond manufacturer tolerance in the inner rear suspension arm bushes. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonks or knocks from the front end when traversing speed humps, uneven surfaces, or driveway kerbs, and pay attention to any vagueness or looseness through the steering, as worn anti-roll bar linkages and tie rod ends can induce a discernible slackness. The advisories concerning corrosion on both rear shock absorbers also warrant a physical inspection of the undercarriage, as corroded damper bodies can lead to reduced damping effectiveness and ultimately to seal failure, so listen for any wallowing, excessive body roll in corners, or continued oscillation after bumps. Beyond the recorded defects, the buyer should also conduct several practical checks appropriate to a high-mileage, age-2012 vehicle. Even though the MOT does not flag tyre perishing, the existing tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and DOT date codes, as fourteen-year-old rubber compounds deteriorate regardless of tread depth. The 12V battery should be load-tested, particularly if the vehicle has been used for short journeys, and the condition of the coolant, brake fluid, and automatic gearbox fluid should be verified, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and should ideally be renewed every two years, while Honda automatic transmissions are known to benefit from regular fluid changes to preserve internal clutch pack life. On the test drive, the buyer should monitor for any slipping, flaring, or harsh shifts from the automatic transmission, ensure the air conditioning blows cold, and check for any illuminated warning lights on the dashboard, including the emissions or engine management light, which would not form part of the MOT but can indicate catalytic converter, lambda sensor, or ignition coil deterioration. Finally, a thorough service history verification is strongly advised, with particular emphasis on evidence of regular cambelt or timing chain inspections, gearbox fluid services, and recent suspension component renewal, as this will provide confidence that the vehicle has been maintained sympathetically to its age and mileage.