2002 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · FE02 PXB

The Honda CR-V in question presents a stable roadworthiness record over the past three years, with no defects logged in any of its five MOT tests—three passes and two failures, all of which occurred on the same day in 2022 and 2023. The failures appear to be administrative rather than mechanical, given the identical mileage stamps (90,865 and 105,597 miles) and the absence of any recorded defects. The most recent test in June 2023, at 105,597 miles, confirms the vehicle met all DVSA requirements without advisories, suggesting no immediate structural or mechanical concerns. However, the lack of recorded advisories or defects does not preclude the need for a thorough pre-purchase inspection, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the unusual clustering of test dates. The mileage accumulation is notably low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging just 4,400 miles per year—a figure that implies either infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2021 test (87,468 miles) and the 2022 failures (90,865 miles) spans over a year with minimal mileage increase, while the subsequent 14,732 miles were covered in just four months by June 2023. This abrupt rise in mileage could indicate a change in ownership or usage patterns, potentially masking deferred maintenance. The absence of mileage progression between the two 2022 tests (both at 90,865 miles) is particularly unusual and may warrant clarification from the seller. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise inspecting components prone to long-term neglect in low-mileage vehicles. Pay close attention to the suspension—particularly the bushings, coil springs, and ball joints—for signs of drying out or corrosion, as these are often overlooked in cars with minimal annual use. The brake system, including calipers, discs, and hydraulic lines, should be checked for binding or fluid leaks, especially if the vehicle has recently seen increased mileage. Structural integrity is another critical area; despite the clean MOT record, rust in wheel arches, sills, or underbody panels can develop insidiously in older vehicles, particularly if stored in damp conditions. Finally, verify the condition of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as these are not always picked up in standard MOT tests.