2016 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · PL16 TYH

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-13 resulted in a clean pass, marking the vehicle’s fourth consecutive test without recorded defects. However, the previous year’s MOT in 2024-02-13 revealed critical failures—specifically, exposed tyre cords on the nearside front tyre, which is a severe breach of 5.2.3(d)(ii) under the DVSA’s tyre integrity standards. This failure, coupled with the defective windscreen wiper blades, indicates a period of mechanical or maintenance neglect that required immediate rectification. While the intervening MOTs since then have been clean, the presence of a single critical failure in 2024 suggests a pattern of either inconsistent servicing or underlying wear that may have been overlooked. Buyers should be cautious, as exposed tyre cords can lead to sudden tread loss, compromised traction, or even tyre failure, particularly in wet conditions, and should prioritise addressing this defect before proceeding. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 60,953 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,095 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a 10-year-old CR-V. This figure does not indicate excessive wear from high mileage alone, as the car has not accumulated the kind of rapid mileage accumulation that would suggest aggressive or prolonged driving. However, the mileage data does not reveal any significant gaps in usage—there is no evidence of prolonged periods of inactivity that could have exacerbated standing corrosion or fluid degradation. That said, the consistent annual mileage does imply regular operation, which may have contributed to the wear observed during the 2024 MOT, particularly in components like the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain. Buyers should confirm that the vehicle has been driven under varied conditions, including hill starts, to assess whether the exposed tyre cords were a result of normal wear or a specific event, such as a puncture or severe impact that compromised the tyre’s internal structure. Given the critical tyre failure from 2024, the prospective buyer must prioritise replacing the nearside front tyre with a new or high-quality reconditioned tyre that meets current UK legal standards for tread depth and cord integrity. Exposed tyre cords are a red flag for potential internal damage, and the vehicle should not be driven on this tyre until it has been professionally inspected and replaced. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, particularly on the nearside front corner, and watch for signs of uneven wear or vibration that could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Additionally, the defective windscreen wiper blades should be replaced immediately, as they pose a safety hazard and can reduce visibility during rain or adverse weather. Beyond these immediate concerns, the vehicle’s clean MOT history since 2024 suggests that the remaining mechanical systems are in a stable condition, but a thorough pre-purchase inspection should include checks on the suspension for signs of worn bushes or coil spring failure, the brake system for disc corrosion or binding calipers, and the exhaust for leaks or emissions-related advisories. For a 10-year-old CR-V with 60,953 miles, the buyer should also conduct a series of practical checks to assess the vehicle’s broader roadworthiness and longevity. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure over time, even at moderate mileage. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around terminals, poor connections, or reduced cranking power, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or failure. Verify that the brake discs are free from corrosion or excessive glazing, and that the calipers do not appear bound or seized, which could indicate standing corrosion or fluid degradation in the hydraulic system. Fluid levels should be checked—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid—with attention paid to their age and calendar-based degradation, as fluids can lose effectiveness over time regardless of mileage. Finally, review the service history to confirm that the vehicle has undergone scheduled maintenance, such as timing belt replacement (if applicable), oil changes, and suspension servicing, which are critical for preventing catastrophic failures in a vehicle of this age. If the service records are incomplete or missing, a professional inspection should be arranged to confirm the vehicle’s true condition.