2011 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · LB60 MPO

The most recent MOT inspection from January 2026 indicates a pass, but the test history reveals a concerning downward trend in maintenance standards. The vehicle underwent a dangerous failure just prior to its pass, which is a significant red flag for a prospective buyer. The presence of dangerous defects regarding critically worn brake pads and illegal tyre tread depth suggests that the vehicle was being operated with components well beyond their safe service life. While the immediate safety issues were rectified to achieve the pass, the recurring nature of certain advisories indicates that maintenance has been reactive rather than proactive, which often leads to more expensive component failures in the near future. With 152,267 miles recorded over approximately 15 years, this Honda CR-V has averaged roughly 10,151 miles per year. This is consistent with typical UK private usage and suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme high-mileage motorway driving, nor has it suffered from the excessive degradation associated with long periods of standing. However, at this mileage and age, the mechanical components are entering a phase of significant wear. You should anticipate that high-wear items such as suspension bushes, dampers, and various seals are nearing the end of their functional life, and the cumulative mileage will have placed considerable stress on the drivetrain and cooling systems. A primary area of concern is the power steering system. The MOT history shows a persistent advisory regarding seepage from the rack and pinion area dating back to at least 2025. This indicates a slow but ongoing leak from the power steering rack. During a test drive, you must listen for any whining or groaning noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds, and check for any fluid leaks on the ground or around the steering assembly. If the seepage increases, it could lead to a total loss of power assistance or damage to the steering pump, necessitating a costly rack replacement. Furthermore, the recent failure of the front brake pads and the advisories regarding pitted and scored brake discs suggest the braking system has been neglected. You should check for any brake shudder under deceleration or a pulsating sensation through the pedal, which would indicate warped or unevenly worn discs. Regarding the tyres and suspension, the history shows a pattern of both tread wear and rubber perishing. Even if the current tyres appear to have sufficient tread, you must inspect the sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing, particularly on the edges, as the previous records indicate this is a recurring issue for this vehicle. Check the suspension for any clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces, as the 2022 advisories regarding perishing suspension arm bushes suggest the rubber components are aging. Finally, given the advisory for an oil leak in 2024, you should carefully inspect the engine bay for fresh oil residue and check the underside of the engine for any active drips to ensure the leak has not worsened.