2009 Honda Civic 2.2L Diesel · OV58 JVC

A clear pattern of chronic braking and suspension component wear defines this Honda Civic's MOT record, with the most recent test on 28 January 2026 continuing a multi-year trend rather than introducing new concerns. Across every recorded test since 2022, the rear brake discs have been flagged as worn, pitted, or scored, and the rear brake hose ferrules above the axle have shown slight corrosion each year, indicating an unresolved deterioration that has now reached the point where front brake pads are also wearing thin. The 2023 advisory noting that the nearside rear braking imbalance was only just within requirements, combined with the persistent disc pitting, suggests the rear brake system has been gradually declining and likely requires imminent attention. Suspension-related advisories have similarly compounded over time, with nearside rear coil spring corrosion flagged in both 2022 and 2023, nearside front shock absorber damping issues noted in 2024, and steering rack inner joint play plus nearside rear axle swivel pin wear appearing in 2025, all pointing to an ageing underpinnings package that is steadily accumulating wear. The recorded mileage of 144,191 miles across approximately 17 years equates to an annual accumulation of around 8,482 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would suggest extended periods off the road, and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent and steady rather than indicating any abrupt changes in use. This kind of moderate, regular mileage pattern generally means the vehicle has been used as intended rather than left standing for prolonged periods, but it also means that consumable wear items such as brakes, tyres, and suspension bushes have all been subject to continuous use over a long period. Mechanically, this translates to a car whose major assemblies have seen plenty of operational cycles, and one where age rather than neglect appears to be the primary driver of the recurring advisories. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority should be a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear discs and pads which have been repeatedly flagged for pitting over four consecutive tests. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or pulsation through the brake pedal, as heavily pitted rear discs can produce vibration under firm braking, and check that the vehicle pulls up straight without any sideways bias that might indicate sticking or binding rear calipers compensating for uneven pad wear. The front discs should also be physically inspected for lipping and minimum thickness, given that the 2026 advisory noted wear there for the first time. Under the vehicle, pay close attention to the rear brake hose ferrules above the axle for any advanced corrosion, and examine the rear coil springs for cracks or significant section loss, as corroded springs can fail suddenly and are a known MOT failure point if deterioration progresses beyond surface rust. The suspension and steering advisories warrant equally careful evaluation before purchase. With steering rack inner joint play flagged in 2025, a test drive should include turning the wheel lock to lock at low speed to detect any clonking, knocking, or slack in the steering, and feeling for vagueness or delay in the steering response that could indicate worn inner tie rods or rack bushes. The nearside rear axle swivel pins and bushes should be checked with the vehicle on a lift, looking for any visible movement or deterioration in the bush material, and the nearside front shock absorber should be inspected for any fresh signs of oil misting or seepage that might suggest the damping issue flagged in 2024 has progressed. Additionally, the corroded fuel pipes and exhaust centre-to-rear joint noted in 2024 should be physically examined, as corroded fuel lines in particular represent a safety concern that would need professional assessment. Finally, check the front tyres carefully for uneven outer edge wear, as the 2025 advisory indicated both front tyres were wearing on their outer edges, which can point to alignment or suspension geometry issues that may still be present.