1997 Honda S-MX 2.0L Petrol · P56 PLY

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile, having secured a pass in its most recent test on 9 April 2026 at 173,275 miles. While the record shows a technical failure on that same date, the lack of recorded defects for that failure suggests an administrative error or a minor issue immediately rectified before the retest. Since February 2023, the car has consistently passed without any advisory notices, indicating a high standard of mechanical maintenance and preventative care over the last three years. At 29 years old, the recorded mileage of 173,275 represents a low annual average of approximately 5,975 miles per year. The usage pattern remains remarkably consistent, with only 2,476 miles covered between April 2024 and April 2025, and another 3,779 miles in the year leading to the 2026 test. This low mileage typically reduces the wear on the drivetrain and engine components, though the long intervals between tests can sometimes lead to the degradation of rubber-based components and fluid seals which are not always captured in a standard MOT inspection. A buyer should focus their physical inspection on the structural integrity and suspension components, given the vehicle's age. Despite the clean history, older Honda models require close scrutiny for hidden corrosion in the sills, wheel arches, and subframe areas where moisture often causes to settle. Verify the condition of the suspension bushings and shock absorbers, as low-mileage vehicles can suffer from rubber perish and seized components over time regardless of distance driven.