2014 Honda CR-V 1.6L Diesel · LS64 RYJ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-15 resulted in a clean pass, but the vehicle’s history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories that suggest gradual wear and potential long-term concerns. While the 2024 and 2023 MOTs were entirely free of defects, the 2025 test showed a notable escalation—particularly the major failure in 2025-06-17 for an excessively worn offside front anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush, which indicates a critical component nearing end-of-life. The front suspension arm corrosion advisories from both 2025 and 2026 also persist, albeit not to a point of structural weakness, but this highlights persistent exposure to moisture or poor lubrication. The near-side rear anti-roll bar pin or bush wear advisory in 2026, while not major, reinforces the need for vigilance over suspension bush integrity. Overall, the maintenance trend is neither improving nor stable—it is deteriorating incrementally, with wear-related issues accumulating over time. The recorded mileage of 146,841 miles for a 2014 CR-V represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,237 miles per year, which is unusually aggressive for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components, as well as potential long-term damage to drivetrain and structural elements. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in active service, possibly with heavy or frequent use, which could explain the rapid progression of wear issues observed in the MOT history. For example, the repeated tyre sidewall damage and cuts indicate prolonged exposure to road conditions that stress the tyres, while the anti-roll bar linkage failure underscores the impact of sustained cornering forces. The front suspension arm corrosion advisories may also be exacerbated by the vehicle’s dynamic handling under high-mileage conditions. For a prospective buyer, this vehicle warrants a meticulous inspection focused on the recurring defects and their implications. Begin with a thorough examination of the suspension system: check for excessive play or clunking noises in the front and rear anti-roll bars, particularly around the linkage pins and bushings, which may indicate further wear or impending failure. Inspect the front suspension arms for any signs of further corrosion or cracks, and verify that the vehicle handles smoothly without excessive body roll or uneven ride quality. The brake system should be scrutinised for signs of uneven wear on the discs or calipers, as the 2025 MOT noted mild wear but not excessive—yet, with high mileage, further inspection is prudent to assess potential binding or heat damage. Listen for any unusual noises during acceleration, braking, or cornering, which could signal issues with the anti-roll bars, suspension, or drivetrain. In addition to the above, perform a detailed visual and functional check of the tyres, ensuring the sidewall damage does not compromise structural integrity. Measure tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension misalignment issues. The offside rear tyre’s cracking or perishing noted in previous MOTs should be addressed promptly, as sidewall damage can lead to blowouts under high-speed conditions. Inspect the engine bay for the loose front cover mentioned in 2025, which may indicate a lack of maintenance or a need for tightening. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, check the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, and verify that all electrical connections are secure, as prolonged standing or high-mileage use can accelerate battery degradation. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids—check the condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as well as the oil level and filter, to ensure they are within recommended specifications and not degraded from age or use. If any of these checks reveal concerning issues, prioritise addressing the suspension, anti-roll bars, and tyre problems before proceeding with purchase, as these areas pose the highest risk of failure or safety compromise.