2014 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · LR14 FEX

The 2014 Honda CR-V’s latest MOT test on 2025-10-09 resulted in a pass, but it included two non-obligatory advisories: a failing non-obligatory stop lamp and front tyres worn to the legal limit on both near- and offside front positions, indicating edge wear rather than central tread reduction. While the vehicle has otherwise maintained a clean MOT history since 2020, the presence of recurring advisories—particularly the offside rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play and front brake binding—suggests a pattern of wear and potential long-term mechanical concerns. The 2022 MOT alone recorded three advisories, implying that while the car remains roadworthy, it has experienced persistent issues that may require closer attention over time. The absence of critical failures or major defects in the intervening years suggests a stable maintenance profile, but the advisories warrant proactive investigation to prevent escalation into more serious mechanical or safety issues. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 115,768 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,647 miles per year, which is consistent with typical long-term ownership patterns for a car of this age. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for a 12-year-old CR-V, though it does imply significant exposure to wear and tear over its lifespan. The absence of dramatic mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity suggests that the car has been driven regularly, which could accelerate the degradation of consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyres. However, the relatively stable mileage progression does not necessarily mitigate the need for careful inspection of high-wear areas, as the advisories suggest ongoing or developing issues that could worsen with continued use. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination include the front brakes, suspension, and tyres. The advisories on brake binding—particularly on the front service brakes—indicate that the brake calipers may be sticking or the brake pads are worn unevenly, potentially leading to reduced braking efficiency or premature pad replacement. During a test drive, listen for a grinding noise when applying brakes, which could signal metal-to-metal contact between pads and discs, and check for uneven brake pad wear or binding when the vehicle is stationary. Additionally, inspect the front tyres for signs of excessive edge wear, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and verify that the tread depth is uniform across the tread surface. The offside rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joint with slight play suggests wear in this area, which could lead to increased road noise or suspension clunks, especially when driving over bumps. Test for clunking noises in the rear suspension when the vehicle is driven over rough terrain, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that might indicate alignment or suspension misalignment. Beyond mechanical checks, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s overall condition for signs of prolonged standing or age-related degradation. Given the car’s age and the advisories present, a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks is advisable, as standing fluids can accelerate rust formation. Check the exhaust for any unusual noises or backpressure, which could indicate catalytic converter issues or exhaust manifold wear. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, especially if the car has been stationary for extended periods, as a failing 12V battery can lead to electrical system failures or poor cold-start performance. Additionally, the vehicle’s service history should be reviewed to confirm that fluid changes—particularly brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant—have been performed according to Honda’s recommended intervals, as fluid degradation over time can compromise braking performance and engine protection. Finally, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, particularly at higher speeds. If the car has been used sparingly or stored for long periods, these checks are even more critical to ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable.