2004 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · LB04 CAE

The 2004 Honda Jazz is currently recorded as roadworthy, with a Pass issued on 29 October 2025 at 95,774 miles and no advisories or defects noted on that test. However, the immediate sequence of a fail on 21 October 2025 followed by a pass only eight days later suggests a minor, easily rectified issue was addressed before re-test, rather than reflecting a clean, untroubled run. Across the five recorded tests spanning 2023 to 2025, the vehicle shows an alternating pass/fail pattern, with two failures recorded in both 2024 and 2025 and no accompanying defect text. The maintenance trend is therefore inconsistent; without defect details, the underlying causes of those failures cannot be confirmed, but the recurrence implies items needing attention were not resolved permanently between tests. Annual mileage is low, averaging roughly 4,353 miles per year over the vehicle's 22-year life. The 2023 test shows the car in use, and subsequent annual tests continue at broadly similar intervals, suggesting the Jazz has remained in light, regular use rather than long periods of standing. Low mileage on a car of this age can mean reduced wear on internal engine and drivetrain components, but it also raises the risk of corrosion at suspension mounting points, seized brake calipers, perished rubber bushes, and dried-out gearbox and differential seals from infrequent operation. The fact that two of the five recorded tests resulted in failure, even with no defect text available, means a prospective buyer cannot rely on the MOT record alone to gauge mechanical condition. Given the failures and the absence of advisory data, a physical inspection is essential. Priority should be given to the underside, checking for structural corrosion on the sills, subframes, and suspension mounting points, which is common on early-2000s Honda Jazz models kept outdoors. The brakes should be examined for binding calipers and worn or corroded discs, particularly at the rear. Suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar bushes, warrant close scrutiny, as do the steering rack gaiters and ball joints. A thorough road test to confirm smooth clutch operation, even idle, and correct gearbox selection is advisable, alongside a compression or leak-down test to verify engine health on what is now a 22-year-old powertrain. Buying score: 48. Risk level: Medium.