2018 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · LS18 OBP

The most recent MOT test conducted on 2026-02-02 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included an advisory for an oil leak that is not deemed excessive. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results from the preceding four years, with no failures or critical defects recorded until the 2023 test, which was the sole failure in the history. The absence of repeated failures or worsening advisories suggests that the vehicle’s overall roadworthiness and maintenance regime have remained stable over time. The oil leak advisory, while not failing the test, indicates a potential area of concern that should be monitored closely, as persistent oil loss can lead to increased engine wear, reduced lubrication efficiency, and ultimately catastrophic engine failure if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s performance during a test drive should include listening for any unusual engine ticking or knocking, particularly when the engine is cold or under load, which may signal internal oil consumption or a failing oil pump. The recorded mileage of 45,908 miles for a vehicle aged approximately eight years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,738 miles per year, which is notably lower than the typical mileage accumulation for vehicles of this age and class. Such low mileage can sometimes reflect periods of inactivity, such as long-term storage or infrequent use, which may contribute to issues like standing corrosion, particularly in the brake systems, suspension components, and exhaust manifold. However, it is also possible that the vehicle has been driven more sparingly, potentially reducing wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and drivetrain elements. The nearside rear tyre advisory from the 2021 MOT, noting wear close to the legal limit and the presence of a nail puncture, suggests that the tyre has undergone significant use and may have been subjected to uneven or aggressive driving conditions. This should prompt a closer inspection of tyre wear patterns and tread depth, as nails can lead to sudden blowouts or further damage if not monitored. For a prospective buyer, this Honda CR-V presents a number of practical checks that should be conducted to ensure its continued roadworthiness, particularly given its age and the potential for low-mileage-related issues. First, the oil leak advisory warrants immediate attention; the vehicle should be inspected for oil stains under the engine bay, particularly around the oil pan, oil filter, and valve cover gaskets. A visual check for oil residue and a test drive with the engine running should reveal any signs of oil consumption or leaks, with particular attention to the oil pressure gauge and the presence of smoke from the exhaust, which may indicate burning oil. If the leak is confirmed, a full engine inspection may be required to identify the source, such as a failing oil seal, cracked oil pan, or a faulty oil pump. Additionally, the brake system should be thoroughly examined, especially given the possibility of standing corrosion. Inspect the brake discs and linings for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises when braking, which could indicate warped discs or worn-out pads. Beyond mechanical checks, the vehicle’s tyres should be scrutinised for both tread depth and sidewall condition. The nearside rear tyre advisory suggests that the tyre may have been worn unevenly or damaged, so the buyer should verify the tread depth across all tyres, ensuring none are at or below the legal minimum of 1.6mm. The sidewall should also be checked for cracks, bulges, or signs of perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, particularly in older vehicles. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and overall health, as low-mileage vehicles can sometimes suffer from prolonged disuse-related battery failure. A simple jump-start test or a battery load test can confirm its functionality. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for time-based fluid degradation, the buyer should verify that the service book has been updated with the last fluid changes, particularly for the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these fluids can degrade over time even without significant mileage. A check of the coolant level and condition, as well as the brake fluid level and colour, can provide further insight into the vehicle’s maintenance history and potential areas of concern.