2018 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · LP67 GPF

The 2018 Honda CR-V’s latest MOT test on 2026-01-12 was passed without any recorded defects, marking a stable maintenance record over the past four years. While the vehicle has not encountered any critical failures, the presence of a consistent advisory—specifically the near-side rear tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing alongside inner edge wear—suggests a pattern worth addressing. This advisory, issued in 2025, indicates the tyre’s rubber has degraded prematurely, which can be influenced by factors such as underinflation, excessive heat exposure, or improper alignment. The absence of further advisories or failures in the intervening MOTs implies that the tyre condition may not have deteriorated further, but proactive replacement is prudent, particularly given the tyre’s age relative to its mileage. The rear child seat advisory from 2022, while not a roadworthiness concern, underscores the need to ensure all safety equipment is functional and not obstructing inspection points during routine checks. The recorded mileage of 102,926 miles for the 2018 CR-V represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,866 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a vehicle of this age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, as well as fluid degradation over time. The high mileage also raises concerns about potential long-term exposure to harsh driving conditions, which could exacerbate issues such as suspension bush wear, exhaust system corrosion, or tyre degradation beyond typical expectations. While the MOT history does not reveal any overt signs of accelerated wear, the combination of high mileage and the tyre advisory warrants a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s suspension, brakes, and tyres to confirm whether the wear patterns align with expected usage or if there are underlying mechanical issues contributing to the tyre’s condition. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in this vehicle are the tyres, suspension, and brakes, given the high mileage and the advisory from the 2025 MOT. Begin with the tyres, particularly the near-side rear tyre, which shows signs of cracking and inner edge wear. Check for additional cracks, bulges, or uneven tread wear across all four tyres, and verify that they meet the minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm. Listen for any unusual noises from the suspension during a test drive, such as clunks or rattles, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged strut mounts. Inspect the rear suspension for excessive play or binding, as well as the condition of the shock absorbers, which may exhibit poor damping or oil leakage. Additionally, examine the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs, sponginess or pulsation in the pedal, or excessive heat discolouration on pads, which could signal binding calipers or warped discs. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is also advisable to check the 12-volt battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, as well as the fluid levels in the engine, transmission, and differential, ensuring they are topped up and free from contamination. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, which for a high-mileage vehicle like this may require more frequent attention than the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. In terms of calendar-based maintenance, the Honda CR-V’s fluid systems should be inspected for degradation, especially given its age and mileage. Coolant should be checked for contamination or sludge buildup, as well as the condition of the radiator and hoses, which may show signs of cracking or brittleness over time. The engine oil should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendation, which for many Honda models is every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. The differential and transmission fluids should also be assessed, with the latter potentially needing replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the specific transmission type. The exhaust system should be inspected for leaks, corrosion, or discolouration, as high mileage can accelerate wear on catalytic converters and mufflers. Lastly, the vehicle’s structural integrity should be checked for any signs of rust, particularly in the underbody and wheel arches, which can compromise the vehicle’s safety and resale value. If the buyer is concerned about the tyre advisory, it is prudent to replace the near-side rear tyre promptly, as cracked tyres can compromise traction and handling, especially in wet or adverse conditions.