2008 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · FN08 TCZ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 February 2026, resulted in a failure. The vehicle was recorded as having a major defect – excessive play in the off‑side rear wheel bearing – which alone is sufficient to render the car unsafe for the road. In addition, the same test noted several recurring advisories concerning the central rear stop lamp, corrosion of the rear suspension arm, and the off‑side rear brake pipe, all of which have been flagged in previous years. The pattern over the last three years shows a gradual accumulation of defects rather than a resolution, indicating a maintenance trend that is worsening rather than stabilising. At 122 246 miles for an eighteen‑year‑old Honda Jazz the annual average mileage works out at roughly 6 800 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope. The mileage does not suggest extreme abuse, but it is sufficient to have driven the car through a full service life of its original suspension bushings, brake components and tyre tread. The relatively steady kilometre count, combined with the recurring corrosion issues, hints that the vehicle may have experienced periods of limited use interspersed with regular driving, a pattern that can exacerbate rust formation on brake pipes and suspension arms when the car sits idle for extended periods. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear wheel bearing on the off‑side. On a test drive listen for a low‑frequency growl or rumble that changes with vehicle speed and varies when the wheel is loaded, and feel for any vibration through the steering column. The rear suspension arm, although not yet structurally compromised, shows corrosion that can progress to weakened mounting points; inspect for any flex or clunk when applying load over bumps. The off‑side rear brake pipe’s corrosion and grease coating are a clear sign of potential fluid leakage – check the area for any dampness, rust staining or a loss of brake pedal firmness, and be prepared for a complete pipe replacement and a brake fluid flush. The central rear stop lamp remains non‑functional; while not a safety‑critical item, it should be repaired to avoid future MOT failures. Beyond the recurring items, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough visual and tactile inspection of all tyres for sidewall cracking or dry rot, especially if they have been stored for long periods. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, as a battery over ten years old often loses cranking power and may fail unexpectedly. Examine the parking brake mechanism, which previously failed to meet efficiency standards; ensure it holds the vehicle firmly on an incline and does not feel spongy. Finally, confirm that the service history includes regular oil, coolant and transmission fluid changes, as fluids degrade with time even when mileage is modest, and any lapse can lead to premature wear of engine and drivetrain components.