2009 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · LL09 VMY

The latest MOT test on the 2009 Honda CR-V, conducted on 2026-07-31, resulted in a pass with a single advisory regarding the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint exhibiting slight play. This is a persistent issue that has been flagged in the most recent MOT, appearing for the first time in the last year’s test, whereas the preceding MOTs from 2023 to 2025 showed no such defects. While this advisory does not affect the vehicle’s roadworthiness, it indicates a developing mechanical concern that requires attention before it progresses into a more critical failure. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years appears stable, with no repeated failures or recurring issues beyond the emissions failure in 2023, which was addressed and rectified. The absence of further defects since then suggests that the vehicle has been maintained adequately, but the suspension advisory warrants proactive investigation to prevent potential alignment or steering system issues. The recorded mileage of 143,052 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 8,415 miles per year, which is typical for a CR-V of this age and class. This figure does not suggest excessive wear from high mileage alone, but it does imply consistent use over the vehicle’s lifespan, which can accelerate wear on components such as suspension bushes, brake pads, tyres, and drivetrain elements. The lack of significant mileage gaps indicates the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing idle for prolonged periods, which could otherwise lead to issues like corrosion in standing components or fluid degradation from stagnation. However, the steady mileage accumulation means consumable items like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may have reached their operational limits sooner than a lower-mileage vehicle might, necessitating closer attention to wear progression and potential replacements. For the prospective buyer, the most critical inspection should focus on the front suspension arm ball joint advisory, as slight play in this component can lead to uneven tyre wear, steering pull, or even suspension failure if ignored. On a test drive, listen for any clunking or rattling noises from the offside front suspension during cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns or excessive lateral wear, which may indicate misalignment or loose suspension geometry. The Honda CR-V’s age and mileage mean that the tyres should be thoroughly inspected for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety, particularly if they have been stored for extended periods. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to corrosion on terminals or reduced charge retention, which may not be evident during a test drive but could cause starting difficulties. Beyond the suspension and tyres, the emissions failure from 2023 suggests that the catalytic converter or exhaust system may have degraded over time, particularly given the vehicle’s age. While the CR-V’s exhaust system is robust, the emissions test is a sensitive indicator of catalytic efficiency, and any recurring issues should prompt a thorough inspection of the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and oxygen sensors. The vehicle’s drivetrain and transmission should also be checked for signs of wear, such as unusual noises from the driveshaft or gearbox, and fluid levels should be confirmed, especially the differential and transmission fluids, which degrade over time and may require replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 3 to 5 years, whichever comes first. Finally, the brake system should be inspected for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, which can occur if the vehicle has been left stationary for long periods, and the brake fluid reservoir should be checked for contamination or moisture buildup, as this can compromise braking performance. A comprehensive service history check would also be beneficial to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid top-ups, has been carried out according to Honda’s recommendations.