2013 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · LT13 DFK

The most recent MOT test on the 2013 Honda CR-V, conducted on 2025-10-16, resulted in a passing outcome with three advisories and one minor defect. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2021, the history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly related to structural and safety components. The most critical failure occurred in 2021 when the central rear seatbelt webbing was deemed dangerously weakened, indicating a severe and unresolved problem that should not be overlooked. Subsequent tests in 2022 and 2023 showed persistent minor faults, including ineffective windscreen wipers and an inoperative registration plate lamp, which, while not immediately dangerous, highlight ongoing wear and potential long-term reliability concerns. The advisories—such as the slight oil leak, perishing wiperblades, and worn-offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint—suggest that the vehicle has been subject to gradual degradation in key suspension and fluid integrity areas, warranting careful attention to prevent escalation. The recorded mileage of 73,988 miles for a vehicle aged 13 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,691 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. This discrepancy between mileage and age could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion, particularly in the undercarriage and wheel arches where moisture and road salts can accelerate rust formation. Low mileage also means that consumable items like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may have degraded over time due to calendar-based aging rather than wear from driving. The absence of high-mileage-related failures—such as excessive suspension wear or drivetrain issues—does not necessarily mean the vehicle is free of wear, but it does suggest that the owner has not subjected the car to heavy or frequent use. This profile necessitates a focus on age-related checks rather than mileage-driven wear. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the central rear seatbelt webbing failure in 2021, which was classified as dangerous. This indicates that the seatbelt system has been compromised, and the webbing may no longer provide adequate restraint in a crash. The buyer should immediately inspect the seatbelt assembly for any signs of fraying, delamination, or physical damage beyond what was noted in the MOT, and consider replacing the webbing and any associated hardware to ensure compliance with current safety standards. Additionally, the wiperblades and registration plate lamp issues are minor but recurring, suggesting a lack of maintenance on these components. The perishing wiperblades should be replaced to prevent windscreen damage and poor visibility, while the inoperative lamp could be a sign of a failing bulb or wiring issue—either should be addressed promptly. In terms of broader physical checks, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should prioritise examining the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with minimal tread wear when tyres are stored for extended periods. The offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint showed slight play and rubber cover perishing in the 2021 MOT advisory, so the suspension should be inspected for excessive movement or unusual noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate further wear in the linkage or bushings. The oil leak noted in the 2025 MOT could stem from a failing valve cover gasket, engine seal, or transmission component, so checking for oil stains under the vehicle and ensuring no fluid is leaking from the engine bay or transmission area is essential. Lastly, the battery should be tested for strength, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from battery drain from parasitic loads or prolonged idling, leading to a weaker charge. A 12V battery voltage check and inspection for corrosion or swelling should be performed, and if the battery is over 10 years old, replacement may be advisable to prevent failure. Fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—should be topped up if low, and a full service history check should be conducted to confirm compliance with Honda’s recommended maintenance schedule, as the vehicle may have missed critical time-based servicing intervals.