2009 Honda Civic 2.0L Petrol · R14 GAR

The most recent DVSA examination on 26 March 2026 resulted in a PASS, with two advisories recorded concerning the nearside front and nearside rear tyres, both flagged as worn close to the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear. Reviewing the full MOT history reveals a consistent and reassuring pattern of clean passes stretching back to 2018, with no advisories of any kind recorded across the preceding seven tests. The sudden appearance of tyre-related advisories on the most recent test suggests that consumable items are beginning to reach the end of their service life, but there is no evidence of any structural, braking, suspension, or corrosion concerns emerging from the test record. The overall maintenance trend can therefore be characterised as stable, with the vehicle clearly having been cared for to a satisfactory roadworthy standard throughout its life. The recorded mileage of 66,619 miles over approximately 17 years equates to an annual average of around 3,919 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. This figure suggests either a secondary or limited-use vehicle, regular short journeys, or significant periods of standing unused. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on major mechanical components such as the engine, clutch, gearbox, and drivetrain, but it does introduce a distinct set of age-related concerns. Extended standing periods can lead to moisture accumulation in the engine and gearbox oils, degradation of brake fluid through hygroscopic absorption, corrosion of brake discs due to lack of regular use, and deterioration of rubber components including seals, hoses, and suspension bushes. Given the very low mileage and the vehicle's age, a prospective buyer should carry out a number of practical physical checks beyond what the MOT history alone can reveal. The tyre advisories warrant immediate attention, and during inspection particular care should be taken to examine all four tyres for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on age-deteriorated rubber regardless of tread depth, and to confirm that replacements are of matching specifications. Brake discs should be inspected for surface corrosion, particularly on the rear drums or rotors of a vehicle that may have stood for long periods, and the handbrake mechanism should be checked for seizure. The 12-volt battery is likely to be well beyond its typical four to five year service life and should be load-tested, while all fluid reservoirs, including brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, should be assessed for condition and replaced if their age cannot be verified. On a test drive, listen carefully for any suspension clonks or knocks that would indicate worn bushes or top mounts, particularly around the front MacPherson struts common to this generation of Civic, and pay attention to brake pedal feel for any sponginess suggesting fluid renewal is overdue. Uneven tyre wear across an axle can point to tracking or suspension geometry issues, while any pulling under braking may indicate a binding caliper that has seized from disuse. Given the substantial gaps likely between use, it is also advisable to verify the continuity of the service book and confirm that time-based servicing items such as cambelt replacement, which is typically due at six or seven year intervals, have been carried out irrespective of the low odometer reading. Overall, the MOT record reflects a well-maintained example, but the low mileage and advancing age mean that a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on age-related deterioration would be strongly recommended.