2004 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · FN04 MFZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 10 March 2026 resulted in a PASS outcome, accompanied by two minor items and one advisory. While the pass is positive, the underlying history suggests a vehicle whose maintenance trend is broadly stable but with recurring and unresolved defect patterns rather than improving. Across the recorded tests there is a persistent and almost unbroken record of front suspension arm ball joint dust cover deterioration on the nearside, appearing as a minor defect in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025, and 2026. This continuity suggests the component has not been replaced and is likely to progress to ball joint failure with associated play. Equally, the headlamp lens condition has been flagged repeatedly, culminating in a major failure in 2022 for seriously defective lenses with no beam visible and misaligned aim projection, and the 2026 test still records slight lens defects on both front headlamps. The 2023 test also recorded a major failure for an inoperative engine malfunction indicator lamp, suggesting an intermittent or unresolved engine management issue. With 186,488 miles recorded over approximately 22 years, annual usage averages around 8,477 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age, although the cumulative mileage is exceptionally high for a Honda CR-V and places considerable demand on the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and suspension. The mileage has accumulated consistently year on year with no extended gaps evident, which is generally favourable in terms of avoiding prolonged standing and associated corrosion, but it does mean wear-related failures on consumables such as suspension bushes, engine and gearbox mountings, and clutch components should be anticipated. Given the recurring nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover defects, a prospective buyer should physically inspect the ball joints for excessive play, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed bumps and during full lock manoeuvres, and check the tyres for uneven inner or outer edge wear which often accompanies worn suspension components. The recurring rear brake pad advisories from 2024 indicate replacement has likely been carried out but the calipers, discs, and rear brake lines should be examined for corrosion, binding, and fluid leaks, particularly given the prior advisory for a corroded brake pipe junction at the nearside front inner wing. The noted engine oil leak advisory from 2022 should be re-examined for progression, and any evidence of oil residue on the undertray, exhaust downpipe, or lower engine areas warrants a compression test and inspection of valve cover gaskets and oil seals. The central exhaust mounting advisory from 2023 should also be confirmed rectified, with the exhaust system checked for blowing gases and security. Beyond the recorded defects, this 2004 CR-V demands age-appropriate scrutiny. The timing chain, idle and throttle body assemblies, and rear differential on the all-wheel-drive variants should be inspected for typical high-mileage wear. Brake fluid and engine coolant should be assumed overdue for replacement on a calendar basis given the vehicle's age, and the 12V battery health should be verified due to repeated short winter journeys suggested by the MOT dates. Tyres should be checked for sidewall perishing and cracking from age irrespective of tread depth, and the alloy or steel wheels inspected for corrosion around the rim bead which can cause slow air loss. The steering rack gaiters, driveshaft boots, and anti-roll bar drop links should be visually examined for splits and grease loss, while a road test should include assessment of automatic or manual gearbox smoothness, clutch bite point, and any vibrations through the steering wheel or under load which may indicate worn driveline components or balancing issues.