2009 Honda Civic 2.0L Petrol · FN02 TAD

The most recent MOT, dated 4 October 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that point. However, the preceding twelve months show a mixed picture: a failure on 2 October 2024 for several major items and a separate failure on 30 September 2023 for headlamp aim, followed by a clean pass a month later. This pattern suggests that the vehicle may have undergone remedial work after each failure, but the recurrence of significant defects points to a maintenance record that is only intermittently thorough rather than consistently proactive. At 129,146 miles for a 2009 model, the car averages roughly 7,600 miles per year, which sits squarely within normal usage for a vehicle of its age. There are no obvious periods of unusually low mileage that would imply long-term storage, nor is there evidence of rapid mileage accumulation that would accelerate wear on high‑stress components such as the clutch, gearbox, or suspension. The mileage level means that consumables—tyre tread, brake pads, clutch disc, and engine oil—should be approaching the latter stages of their service lives and will likely require close inspection or replacement in the near term. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the items that caused the 2024 failure. Verify that the brake fluid has been topped up and, ideally, flushed, as a low level can indicate moisture ingress and reduced boiling point, leading to a spongy pedal or reduced braking efficiency. Inspect the front lower ball‑joint dust covers for signs of corrosion or missing seals, and test the front suspension for play or clunking when applying steering inputs over bumps, which would indicate worn bushings or ball‑joint deterioration. Check that the side‑repeaters on the nearside are fully illuminated; a dimmer light can be a sign of a failing bulb or wiring fault that compromises visibility at night. Both front windows were recorded as excessively tinted; ensure the tint complies with the 70 percent light transmission limit and that the driver’s view of the external mirrors is not obstructed, as non‑compliant tint can lead to a future MOT failure. Finally, confirm that the off‑side headlamp has been correctly re‑aimed, as an incorrectly aimed beam can cause glare to other road users and reduce effective illumination for the driver. Beyond the specific MOT items, a vehicle of this age warrants a thorough age‑related inspection. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot, or uneven wear that may stem from age rather than mileage, and confirm that the tread depth exceeds the legal minimum. Assess the 12‑volt battery for charge holding capacity, especially if the car has spent periods idle, and look for any signs of terminal corrosion. Inspect all fluid reservoirs—engine oil, coolant, power‑steering, and transmission (if applicable)—for colour change, particulates, or low levels, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, check for any rust or corrosion on the chassis, wheel arches, and under‑body, and ensure that the service book shows regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance; gaps in the record may indicate neglected servicing that could affect long‑term reliability.