2003 Honda Accord 2.2L Petrol · GP03 JDJ

This Honda Accord presents a significant concern regarding its structural integrity, having failed an MOT in September 2025 due to excessive corrosion on the offside rear inner suspension component mounting prescribed area, which was deemed to significantly reduce structural strength. While this issue was rectified for a pass six days later, the nearside rear inner suspension mounting area has been consistently flagged as corroded, albeit not excessively, in both 2025 tests and the most recent examination on 9th September 2026. This indicates a persistent and critical area of deterioration. The latest MOT test passed with an advisory for a minor exhaust gas leak, following an earlier dangerous failure in September 2021 for severe braking system defects, including no recorded effort at the offside rear service brake and parking brake inoperability. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 115,655 miles over approximately 23 years suggests a relatively low annual usage, averaging around 5,028 miles per year. While lower mileage can sometimes indicate less wear on certain drivetrain components, it can also contribute to issues such as accelerated corrosion due to prolonged periods of standing, or the perishing of rubber components like suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls. The history shows periods of clean passes interspersed with significant mechanical and structural failures, suggesting that while the vehicle has been kept roadworthy, it has required substantial remedial work at various points to address critical defects. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's underbody, specifically focusing on the rear inner suspension component mounting areas, including the sills, for any signs of corrosion, previous repairs, or weakened metal. Given the history, particular attention should be paid to both the offside and nearside areas, as the latter has been a recurring advisory. Any evidence of bubbling paint, rust perforation, or compromised welds in these structural areas warrants extreme caution. Furthermore, a comprehensive examination of the entire braking system is essential. The dangerous failure in 2021, coupled with recurring advisories for worn or pitted rear brake discs, necessitates a detailed check of all brake components, including calipers for binding, brake lines for corrosion or leaks, and the condition of discs and pads. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing noises, feel for pedal judder, and assess the vehicle's ability to brake evenly and effectively. The exhaust system should also be checked for the minor leak noted in the latest MOT, listening for any blowing sounds, particularly when the engine is cold. Ensure that the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning lamps illuminate and extinguish correctly, as these systems were also flagged for faults in 2025.