2002 Honda Civic 1.4L Petrol · EJ51 ACF
2002 Honda Civic (1.4L, petrol). First registered 22 Jan 2002. Recorded mileage 100,357 miles. MOT expired on 28 Aug 2024.
- Make & Model
- HONDA CIVIC
- Year / Origin
- 2002 · Chelmsford
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 28 Aug 2024
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (12 Aug 2024)
- Recorded Mileage
- 100,357 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Likely ULEZ Compliant (Early Euro 4)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
EJ51 ACF Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 26/08/2023
- 100,357 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (13 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
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EJ51 ACF Mileage History
- 29/08/202291,846 mi
- 30/08/202291,856 mi+10 mi
- 26/08/2023100,357 mi+8,501 mi
Average of roughly 8,590 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
EJ51 ACF MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 2002 Honda Civic (EJ51 ACF) between August 2022 and August 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 26 August 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (13 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 17 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Rear Road wheel fixing missing nut (5.2.1 (a) (i))”; “Offside Front Road wheel fixing missing nut (5.2.1 (a) (i))”; “Exhaust emissions likely to be affected by an exhaust leak (8.2.2.1 (b))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Caution is advised due to significant ongoing corrosion issues. While the engine appears robust, this specific example shows a history of suspension rust and brake line degradation that will require immediate and future attention.
When inspecting this Civic, your priority must be the chassis and underside. The MOT history repeatedly mentions corroded coil springs, suspension arms, and brake pipes. Check closely for deep structural rust on the sills and wheel arches, as these are common failure points that can lead to expensive repairs. Ensure the service history is documented, as the 2022 MOT noted an oil leak that should be monitored for severity.
Test the suspension during a test drive; given the history of ball joint play and worn bushes, listen for any knocking or clunking when going over bumps. Verify that all wheel bolts are present and secure, as the car previously failed in 2022 for missing wheel fixings. Also, check that all lights and wipers are fully functional, as these have been recurring points of failure in the past.
The 1.4L petrol engine is relatively fuel efficient, likely achieving between 35-45 MPG depending on driving conditions. As an older vehicle, it should fall into a lower tax band and insurance group, making it affordable to run on a daily basis.
However, maintenance costs will be influenced by the age of the car. You should budget regularly for replacing suspension components, shocks, and brake lines. Expect an estimated annual running cost of approximately £900-£1,200, including fuel, tax, and routine servicing.
Focus heavily on the braking system and suspension. The MOT history shows multiple advisories for corroded brake pipes, which is a serious safety concern. Inspect for any signs of fluid leaks around the master cylinder and along the lines. The offside front and rear coil springs have been flagged for corrosion multiple times; check them for thinning metal or cracks.
Examine the front suspension lower arm bushes and ball joints. The history indicates 'slight play' and 'deteriorated' bushes, which affect handling and tire wear. Additionally, check the exhaust system for leaks, as the 2022 failure was specifically due to an exhaust leak that could have affected emissions.
This 2002 Honda Civic has covered just over 100,000 miles, which is consistent with its age. While it has passed its most recent MOT, the historical data reveals a persistent pattern of structural corrosion, particularly in the suspension and brake lines. The vehicle has suffered several MOT failures related to safety-critical items like missing wheel nuts and lighting issues, suggesting the buyer should be prepared for rising maintenance costs to keep the car roadworthy.
The 7th generation Honda Civic is known for its bulletproof engines, but older models are susceptible to rust if not treated and maintained.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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