2009 Honda Civic 1.8L Petrol · OV59 ERO

Fuel economy for the 1.8 i-VTEC should average around 38–42 mpg in mixed driving, though a car with 135,025 miles may deliver slightly less if sensors or engine components have aged. Road tax for a 1.8-litre petrol of this age sits in a low band — typically £30–£165 per year depending on exact CO2 figures, but post-2017 rules for vehicles registered before 2001 aside, most 2009 petrol cars cost £165 annually. Insurance is likely to fall in group 8–10 for this model, which is favourable for a family-sized hatchback.

Maintenance costs on this generation Civic are generally reasonable: an independent garage will service it for £120–£180, and parts availability is strong. Expect to budget for the advisory repairs flagged in the MOT — brake pads (£80–£120 fitted), tyres (£200–£280 for a set of four budget brands), and the track rod end ball joint (£100–£180 fitted). The CV boot repair, if needed, could push a single visit to £250–£350. Overall annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance, are likely to fall in the £1,400–£1,800 range.

The most recent MOT (July 2026) flagged a severely deteriorated offside front drive shaft CV boot — this is a priority inspection item. A split boot allows grease to escape and contamination in, leading to CV joint failure if not addressed promptly. Jack the car up and inspect the boot for cracks, splits, or grease deposits on the inside of the wheel. Also inspect the nearside front for similar wear, as CV boots tend to deteriorate at similar rates on both sides.

Steering components have appeared as advisories or failures across three of the last four tests: track rod end ball joint dust cover (2023 failure), slight play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint (2025), and the CV boot issue (2026). This pattern suggests the front suspension is reaching a stage where refurbishment is sensible. Check for uneven front tyre wear, knocking noises over bumps, or vagueness in the steering — all signs that the track rod ends or wishbone bushes may need replacement beyond what the MOT recorded.

Finally, inspect tyres carefully. The 2025 test recorded three tyres worn close to the legal limit, and a year later these will almost certainly have been replaced — verify that the replacements are of consistent quality and that the wheels have been refitted with no tracking issues. Also check the windscreen for any crack growth from the damage noted in 2025, and confirm the rear number plate remains legible.