2002 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol · RE52 ACO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 February 2026, was a pass but it carried two advisories concerning the near‑side and off‑side rear brake discs being worn, pitted or scored. The preceding test a month earlier resulted in a failure for a short‑travel brake pedal, severely reduced headlamp output and the same rear‑disc advisories, while earlier years show only minor advisories for front‑pad wear and an oil leak. This pattern suggests that the vehicle’s condition has improved enough to clear the test after remedial work, yet the recurring rear‑disc wear and the earlier brake‑pedal fault indicate that underlying wear items have not been fully addressed and may re‑appear if left unattended. At 186 594 miles recorded for a 2002 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7 800 mi per year, which is within the normal range for a vehicle of this age. The figure does not point to extreme high‑speed use, but it also does not rule out periods of prolonged inactivity that can accelerate corrosion and rubber degradation. The mileage level means that most wear‑items – brake discs, pads, suspension bushes, bushings and the timing belt – are likely approaching the end of their service life, even if the annual usage has been moderate. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear braking system. Inspect the rear discs for minimum thickness, surface scoring and any signs of heat‑related cracking; a disc that is near the legal minimum will need replacement and the calipers should be checked for proper piston return and even pad wear. Verify that the brake pedal now offers the full travel required – a short‑travel pedal can indicate air in the hydraulic system, a failing master cylinder or worn push‑rod bushings, and it will manifest as a firm, unresponsive pedal or a need for excessive force to stop. The headlamps should be examined for any film, wax or oxidation on the lenses; cleaning may be sufficient, but if the output remains low the units may need re‑glaring or replacement. Front brake pads were flagged as thin in 2024, so confirm pad thickness and listen for any squeal or shudder under braking, which would point to worn pads or glazed discs. The oil‑leak advisory from 2025 should be traced – common sources are the valve‑cover gasket or oil‑separator pipe – and the engine should be checked for oil level consistency and any smoke or oil spots under the vehicle. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot and verify the DOT date code; even if tread depth is adequate, tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement. Inspect the chassis, wheel arches and under‑body for rust, especially around suspension mounting points and exhaust hangers, as standing periods accelerate corrosion. Check the condition of suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any play, clunking or uneven tyre wear. Test the 12 V battery voltage and its ability to hold charge, as batteries over ten years often fail unexpectedly. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid have been changed within their recommended intervals – brake fluid should be refreshed at least every two years, and the timing belt (if fitted rather than a chain) should have been replaced around the 100 000‑mile mark; absence of evidence of this service could necessitate a belt replacement to avoid catastrophic engine damage. A complete service book with stamps and receipts will give confidence that these time‑critical items have been addressed.