2005 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · LD05 MVT

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2005 Honda CR-V in October 2022 resulted in a failure, indicating a recent period of declining maintenance standards. The failure was significant, involving multiple major defects including a defective steering column, damaged headlamp lenses, a non-functional stop lamp, and a damaged wing mirror. While the vehicle has passed tests in previous years, the transition from minor advisories regarding light clouding and worn bushes to major structural and safety failures suggests a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. A prospective buyer should view this recent failure as a signal that the vehicle may have been neglected or subjected to minor impacts that were not immediately addressed. With a recorded mileage of 201,793 miles over 21 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 9,600 miles per year. This is a consistent and typical usage profile for a diesel or petrol SUV of this era, suggesting the vehicle has been used regularly rather than sitting idle for long periods. This consistent usage is generally positive for mechanical health as it helps prevent excessive corrosion on brake discs and keeps seals lubricated, but the high total mileage means that high-wear components such as the drivetrain, suspension, and cooling system are likely nearing the end of their service life. The cumulative mileage necessitates a very thorough inspection of the engine's compression and the condition of the gearbox and clutch or automatic transmission fluid. During a test drive, particular attention must be paid to the steering and front-end stability. The 2022 failure regarding excessive movement in the upper steering column is a serious concern that could manifest as a vague or notched steering feel, or even audible clunking when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds. Given the history of deteriorated anti-roll bar bushes and wishbone pin movement, you should listen for knocks or rattles from the front and rear suspension when driving over speed bumps. Furthermore, the history of tyre wear on the inner edges and the previous dangerous failure for exposed cords suggests that the wheel alignment or tracking may be out of specification. Inspect the tyres for uneven tread wear patterns, which would indicate worn suspension bushes or incorrect camber settings. Finally, you must verify that all recent repairs following the 2022 failure have been carried out to a high standard. Check that the headlamp lenses are clear and provide adequate illumination, and ensure the stop lamps and mirrors are fully functional and secure. Because the vehicle is over two decades old, even with regular mileage, you should inspect the rubber components for perishing, such as engine mounts, coolant hoses, and drive shafts. Check for any signs of oil misting or leaks around the shock absorbers, as previous advisories have noted light oil leakage. A comprehensive service history, including evidence of regular oil changes and timing belt replacements if applicable to this specific engine, is essential to mitigate the risks associated with such high mileage.