2012 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · LS12 LLG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 March 2026, was passed but returned an advisory that the tow‑bar mounting is showing corrosion, albeit not to a degree that currently renders it unsafe. Over the preceding five years the pattern is mixed: two passes with no recorded defects, two passes that flagged front‑tyre tread depth approaching the legal minimum, and a single failure in March 2025 that cited an exposed ply on the off‑side front tyre and severe edge wear on the near‑side front tyre. The recurrence of front‑tyre wear advisories indicates a persistent issue, while the overall pass‑rate suggests the vehicle’s broader maintenance has been adequate apart from tyre management. With 137,816 miles recorded on a 2012 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 9,800 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious large mileage gaps that would hint at prolonged periods of storage, nor is the accumulation unusually rapid. Consequently, wear on consumables such as brake pads, suspension bushes and engine oil seals is likely to be commensurate with a vehicle that has seen regular, moderate use rather than severe abuse. Prospective buyers should give the front tyres immediate attention. The repeated advisories about tread depth and the prior failure for exposed ply strongly suggest that the front tyre set is at or beyond the end of its serviceable life and should be replaced before any further road use. When inspecting the tyres, look for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracking, and any bulges that could indicate internal damage. During a test drive, listen for a thumping or vibration that may emanate from a deteriorating tyre, and feel for any pull to one side that could point to mismatched tread depths or alignment issues. The tow‑bar corrosion, while not yet a safety fault, should be examined for rust penetration into the mounting brackets; any flaking or structural loss would necessitate repair or removal, especially if the vehicle is to be used for towing. Additionally, verify that the brake discs and pads show even wear and are free from excessive surface rust, as the vehicle’s moderate mileage and age can lead to disc corrosion if the car has spent extended periods stationary. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough age‑related inspection is prudent. Check the condition of the rubber seals around the doors, windows and boot for signs of perishing, and inspect the battery for sulphation or reduced cranking power, especially if the car has been idle for long stretches. Examine the suspension components—coil springs, shock absorbers and rubber bushings—for any creaking, looseness or excessive play, which can develop over time even with moderate mileage. Finally, confirm that the service history includes regular oil changes, coolant flushes and timing‑belt (or chain) service at the manufacturer’s intervals, as calendar‑based fluid degradation can affect engine reliability irrespective of mileage. A comprehensive visual and road‑test appraisal addressing these points will give a clear picture of the CR‑V’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.