2005 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · EK05 AAF

A persistent corrosion theme runs through the MOT record, with brake pipe greasing and rust noted on virtually every test since 2018, alongside under‑body and rear‑axle sill corrosion that, while not yet judged to compromise structural rigidity, signals ongoing exposure to moisture. The most recent September 2026 test was passed, but the same corrosion advisories re‑appear, indicating that the issue has neither been resolved nor worsened dramatically. Earlier failures – notably the off‑side rear pad thickness under 1.5 mm in 2022 and an exhaust lambda fault the same year – were corrected enough for subsequent passes, yet the pattern of recurring advisories suggests a vehicle that has managed to stay road‑worthy while carrying a chronic rust problem. At 125,523 mi for a 21‑year‑old Honda Jazz the average annual mileage works out to just under 6,000 mi, well below the typical 10‑12 k mi per year for a car of this age. The low utilisation reduces wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components, but it also raises the likelihood of prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate corrosion on steel parts and brake lines – exactly the defects repeatedly flagged. The MOT history shows no long gaps in testing, with annual checks from 2018 onward, so the mileage figure is reliable and the vehicle has been regularly inspected despite its modest use. Prospective buyers should give the brake system thorough attention. Corroded front and rear brake pipes, all covered in grease, can develop leaks or reduced hydraulic efficiency; feel for a spongy or soft pedal, listen for air‑hissing sounds, and verify that braking remains firm under moderate pressure. The rear pads were warned as thin in 2026 and were critically worn in 2022, so a visual inspection of pad thickness on both axles is essential, and replacement may be prudent if wear is uneven or approaching the minimum limit. Any signs of fluid seepage around the pipe joints or rust staining on the calipers should be addressed promptly. The suspension and steering assemblies also merit close scrutiny. The 2024 advisory about the off‑side front upper MacPherson strut pin showing play, together with the deteriorated anti‑roll bar ball‑joint dust cover noted the same year, can manifest as clunking noises over bumps or a vague looseness in steering response. The slight play recorded on the near‑side front wheel bearing in 2018 may have progressed, so listen for grinding or humming from the front wheels at speed and check for uneven tyre wear. Corrosion on the rear axle and spring mounts could affect ride firmness; a firm bounce test and a check for any wobble when the rear wheels are rocked will reveal looseness. Finally, verify that all exterior lights – especially the near‑side position lamp and rear stop lamp that failed in 2019 – illuminate correctly, and confirm that the exhaust system no longer leaks, as past lambda and exhaust‑leak advisories indicate potential emissions concerns that could re‑appear if the underlying rust is not remedied.