2012 Honda Civic 2.2L Diesel · ML62 CSF

The most recent MOT on 22 October 2025 was passed, the only recorded items being minor damage to the dust‑covers on both front track‑rod ends. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has moved from a single major failure for an ABS warning in 2022 to a series of advisory items and finally to clean passes, indicating that the overall maintenance trajectory has stabilised. The recurrence of front track‑rod dust‑cover deterioration and tyre‑wear advisories suggests a need for continued attention to suspension and tyre health, but no serious safety‑critical defects remain outstanding. At 156,051 miles the car averages roughly 11,100 miles per annum, which is typical for a fourteen‑year‑old family hatchback. The mileage does not reveal any long periods of inactivity that might have accelerated age‑related degradation, nor does it indicate excessive high‑speed use. Nevertheless, a cumulative mileage above 150 000 miles means that wear items such as suspension bushings, ball joints, brake components and tyre rubber will be approaching the end of their design life and should be inspected with a view to proactive replacement. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular focus to the front track‑rod ends and their rubber dust‑covers; look for any looseness, play or clunking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed, and verify that the ball joints are well lubricated and not leaking. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, side‑wall cracking, and uneven wear patterns – the off‑side rear tyre was flagged as close to the legal limit and the front off‑side tyre showed cracking, so replacement of at least the rear pair is likely imminent. Check the rear brake hoses for any signs of corrosion at the ferrules and feel the rear brake pedal for a spongy or soft response that could indicate hose deterioration. Verify that the ABS warning lamp is extinguished and that the ABS sensor rings are clean; any illumination of the ABS light on a test drive would point to a lingering electronic fault that may require a diagnostic scan and possible controller or sensor replacement. Beyond the recorded defects, an age‑appropriate inspection should include a thorough visual check of the under‑body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as prolonged exposure can weaken structural integrity. Test the 12‑volt battery’s cranking power and inspect the terminals for corrosion, since a fourteen‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the manufacturers’ intervals – fluid degradation over time can lead to reduced lubrication and braking performance even on low‑mileage cars. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑chain inspections (the Civic uses a chain rather than a belt) and any major component replacements, as a well‑documented service history will give you greater confidence in the vehicle’s long‑term reliability.