2004 Honda Civic 1.6L Petrol · RL53 CKN

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a clear pattern of instability rather than stability. The most recent test in October 2025 was passed on record miles of 123,185, yet the vehicle has experienced two separate MOT failures between October 2023 and August 2024. This gap of roughly two years indicates that the vehicle has been neglected or underutilized for a significant portion of its lifecycle, suggesting that basic upkeep has been skipped. The second failure in September 2023 occurred on record miles of 120,686, which is only 2,500 miles away from the October test, confirming that the vehicle has been driving for less than a year. This rapid mileage accumulation between the two most recent tests suggests that the vehicle has experienced significant wear on its drivetrain components and suspension bushings, rather than a gradual accumulation of minor consumables. The lack of a consistent MOT record since mid-2023 implies that the owner has likely been absent or the car has been stored for extended periods. The mechanical issues identified in the October 2025 test are severe and point to serious structural risks. The most critical finding is the failure of the rear brake discs, which are worn pitted or scored but not weakened, indicating that the brake system is compromised due to excessive friction and material degradation rather than simple wear. The suspension components, specifically the coil springs and anti-roll bars, are corroded and exhibit play or excessive play in ball joints, which suggests that the suspension geometry is unstable and prone to failure under load. Furthermore, the engine MIL in the September 2023 test indicates a malfunction in the engine unit, which is a serious indication of potential internal damage or a lack of proper engine maintenance. The presence of dust covers on the front track rod end and rear upper anti-roll bar linkage, which no longer prevent dirt ingress, confirms that the suspension bushings and mounting areas are deteriorating, leading to potential alignment issues. A buyer must inspect these specific components in person, focusing on the suspension integrity, the condition of the brake discs and calipers, and the engine unit for damage. The extensive corrosion on the coil springs and anti-roll bar linkages suggests that the vehicle has been exposed to harsh elements, likely in the UK, which accelerates rust and structural failure. The failure of the rear brake discs requires immediate professional assessment before any further driving is attempted, as they may need replacement. The engine MIL in the September 2023 test indicates that the engine is likely malfunctioning, which could lead to catastrophic failure if not addressed promptly. Given the history of two separate MOT failures within a two-year span, the vehicle is currently at risk of imminent breakdown, necessitating a thorough inspection of the suspension and brakes immediately.