2005 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · DV55 VLM

The most recent MOT record for this 2005 Honda CR-V, tested just five weeks ago on 2025-12-15, confirms the vehicle passed without any defects at 103,884 miles. Despite a failed test on 2025-12-04—just one mile prior—no specific faults were recorded, suggesting the failure was likely administrative or procedural rather than mechanical. The preceding tests in 2024 and 2023 also passed without issues, indicating a stable maintenance trend over the past three years. However, the repeated failures in September 2023, just two days apart, warrant scrutiny, as they imply either a temporary oversight or a recurring but undocumented mechanical issue that was not resolved before the retest. The vehicle’s mileage progression of roughly 4,947 miles annually is unusually low for its age, particularly given its 21-year history. Between the 2023 and 2024 tests, the car accumulated only 5,321 miles over 12 months, and a similar pattern persists between 2024 and 2025, with just 3,155 miles covered. Such minimal usage may suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate wear on components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers due to lack of motion. Conversely, it could also indicate the vehicle was stored in a controlled environment, mitigating some deterioration risks. The lack of mileage spikes or abrupt jumps further supports the idea of consistent, albeit light, usage rather than aggressive driving habits. Given the absence of recorded defects in recent MOTs, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to degradation over time, particularly in a vehicle of this age. The suspension system—including coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—should be examined for uneven wear, corrosion, or binding, as these are common issues in older CR-Vs with low mileage but prolonged storage. Brake discs and calipers should be checked for uneven wear patterns or signs of overheating, especially if the vehicle was ever driven aggressively despite the low mileage. Structural integrity, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, must also be assessed for corrosion, as rust can compromise the vehicle’s safety without always being flagged in an MOT. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive corrosion, as emissions-related failures are often the first to appear in older models. While the MOT history suggests no major mechanical failures, these areas remain critical for ensuring long-term reliability.