2016 Honda CR-V 1.6L Diesel · M88 OAD

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-21 resulted in a passing grade, though it included an advisory regarding front brake discs that are worn but not to an excessive degree under current standards. This follows a failure in 2026-01-20, where the same brake disc wear advisory was noted alongside a dangerous failure for exposed tyre cords on the offside rear tyre, indicating a critical safety issue that required immediate attention. The preceding MOT records show a pattern of minor defects and advisories, particularly concerning brake components and suspension ball joint dust covers, which suggests a history of wear that has not yet escalated to critical failure levels. While the overall trend from 2023 to 2026 has been relatively stable, with only a single outright failure, the recurring advisories on brake pad and disc wear, combined with the high recorded mileage, warrant closer scrutiny to prevent further degradation. The vehicle’s mileage of 123,860 miles at the age of ten years represents a usage rate of approximately 12,386 miles annually, which is notably high for its class and age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyres, as well as long-term degradation of fluids and seals. The presence of exposed tyre cords in the offside rear tyre during the 2026-01-20 failure is particularly concerning, as this condition often results from excessive tread wear or poor alignment, which can lead to uneven tyre degradation and premature failure. Additionally, the consistent wear advisories on brake pads and discs suggest that the braking system has been under significant stress, potentially due to heavy or aggressive driving habits or inadequate maintenance. This combination of high mileage and recurring wear indicators underscores the need for a thorough inspection to address potential underlying issues before they compromise roadworthiness. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the front and rear brake systems, as the MOT history highlights persistent wear on brake pads and discs. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, pulsations or vibrations under braking, or a spongy feel, which could indicate warped discs, binding calipers, or hydraulic issues. Inspect the brake discs for signs of glazing, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, and check the brake pads for minimum thickness compliance (typically 1.5mm or more). The exposed tyre cords on the offside rear tyre necessitate immediate replacement, as further use could lead to sudden tyre failure and loss of control. Additionally, visually inspect the suspension components, particularly the track rod ends, for signs of excessive play, binding, or corrosion, as the MOT records noted minor damage to the dust covers, which may have allowed contaminants to ingress and accelerate wear. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a comprehensive fluid inspection, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as high mileage and prolonged standing can accelerate degradation. Brake fluid should be checked for moisture content and replaced if it appears dark or has absorbed water, which can compromise braking performance. Coolant should be fresh to prevent overheating and corrosion, while transmission fluid should be evaluated for sludge or contamination, particularly if the vehicle has been driven under heavy loads. The tyre condition should also be scrutinised beyond the tread depth, as sidewall perishing or cracking due to age or exposure to UV light can compromise structural integrity. Finally, verify the battery health, as prolonged idling or high mileage can drain the 12V system, leading to electrical gremlins or starting issues. If the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods, check for standing corrosion on the chassis, exhaust system, and undercarriage, as moisture can accelerate rust formation. A thorough service history review, if available, would further inform the maintenance timeline, particularly for items like oil changes, spark plugs, and timing belt replacement, which are critical at this mileage.