2013 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · LM63 TYU

The most recent MOT test on the 2013 Honda CR-V, conducted on 2025-11-08, resulted in a passing grade with several advisories and minor defects, indicating a maintenance trend that has remained stable over the past few years but with notable wear-related issues. While the vehicle passed all prior MOTs without recorded defects from 2020 onward, the advisories from 2025 suggest persistent wear in the suspension system, specifically in the front suspension arms, ball joints, and track rod ends. These findings are consistent with the vehicle’s age and usage, as the wear patterns align with expected degradation in high-mileage components. The lack of failures in the intervening years implies that while the wear is progressing, it is not yet severe enough to compromise roadworthiness or structural integrity, but proactive attention is warranted to prevent further deterioration. The recorded mileage of 87,892 miles for a vehicle that is approximately 13 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,761 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. This mileage distribution does not suggest unusually heavy or light usage, though the absence of significant mileage gaps could indicate either consistent driving habits or periods of inactivity that have not significantly accelerated wear. However, the suspension advisories and minor defects suggest that the vehicle has experienced sustained stress, particularly in the front suspension components, which are critical for ride quality and handling. Higher mileage tends to accelerate wear on suspension bushes, ball joints, and track rod ends, so the advisories from 2025 are not unexpected but underscore the need for closer inspection of these areas to avoid potential failure. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the front suspension components, as the advisories and minor defects indicate ongoing wear. Look for signs of excessive play or binding in the suspension arms, ball joints, or track rod ends, which may manifest as clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, uneven ride height, or a noticeable sag in the front end. Listen for any unusual rattling or grinding sounds from the suspension, particularly when the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly, as these can indicate worn or failing components. Additionally, check the brake pads for further thinning or uneven wear, as the advisories from 2019 and 2018 suggest that the front and rear pads are approaching or have already reached the minimum safe thickness. Inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive glazing, which could indicate brake shudder or reduced braking performance. Beyond the suspension and brakes, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant attention to several other potential issues. Given the extended period since the last MOT, verify the condition of the tyres, paying particular focus on the sidewall for signs of cracking, perishing, or dry rot, which can compromise structural integrity and handling. Check the tyre tread depth for uniformity and signs of uneven wear, as this may indicate suspension or alignment issues. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around the terminals, a swollen or bulging battery case, or reduced cranking power, particularly when starting the engine or in cold conditions. Since the vehicle has been driven over 87,000 miles, consider checking the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and differential fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to Honda’s recommended service intervals, even if the vehicle has not been serviced recently. Finally, conduct a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural damage, and listen for any unusual noises or backpressure, which could indicate exhaust manifold or catalytic converter issues. A thorough test drive should also include checking for any unusual noises from the drivetrain, such as clunking or grinding from the driveshaft or universal joints, and verifying that the steering and suspension respond smoothly without excessive play or binding.