2009 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · RO59 KHD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 11 June 2026, achieving a pass certificate, but the test recorded four advisory items which collectively warrant careful attention from any prospective purchaser. The maintenance trend over the past five test cycles is broadly stable, with passes achieved consecutively since 2022 and no failures recorded at any point. However, the gradual accumulation of advisories in 2023 and 2026, particularly the suspension-related items appearing in the latest test, suggests that the underlying mechanical condition is gradually moving from pristine to one requiring proactive attention. A pass with advisories is not a failure, but the items raised are early warning indicators that should not be ignored when negotiating purchase or budgeting for imminent maintenance. With recorded mileage of 57,167 miles over approximately seventeen years, this Honda Jazz has covered an annual average of around 3,363 miles, which is notably low and well below the typical usage pattern for a vehicle of its age. Such low annual mileage often indicates either consistent light use, frequent short trips, or extended periods of standing between drives. Mechanically, low mileage is generally favourable for major drivetrain items such as the engine and transmission, but it does introduce specific concerns regarding components that degrade with age rather than use. Brake discs and calipers can corrode and seize when a vehicle is left standing, coolant and brake fluid lose their protective properties over time regardless of mileage, and rubber components throughout the vehicle harden and perish as the calendar advances. The relatively sparse MOT history, with only five tests recorded over the five-year accessible period, combined with the very low mileage figure, reinforces the importance of conducting a thorough age-related inspection rather than relying solely on odometer readings. The most recent advisories require particular attention. The rear inner brake pads wearing thin note indicates that the friction material is approaching its service limit, and on a test drive you should listen for any squealing or grinding from the rear axle, particularly under light braking, and feel for any pulling to one side which could suggest uneven pad wear or a binding caliper. The nearside rear suspension component mounting area showing corrosion on the outer sill, while not currently excessive, requires monitoring as Honda Jazz sill corrosion is a recognised area of concern, and you should inspect the sill visually for any bubbling under the wheel arch or soft metal when pressing underneath the door. The offside rear suspension arm bush being worn is a more significant advisory, as deteriorated bushes typically produce clonking or knocking noises over speed humps, bumps, and during heavy cornering, and can also lead to vague or wandering steering response. During the test drive, listen carefully over uneven surfaces and during direction changes for suspension noise, and visually inspect the rear suspension arms for any obvious cracking, deformation, or excessive play when the wheel is rocked by hand. The nearside rear tyre perishing advisory from the 2023 test should prompt a thorough inspection of all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot, or uneven wear, particularly given the low mileage which can accelerate sidewall perishing due to underuse combined with age. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age-appropriate checks are strongly recommended given the calendar age of this Jazz. Verify that the service book contains stamps or receipts confirming regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, as low annual mileage often coincides with neglected time-based servicing. Inspect the 12 volt battery, as batteries older than five years frequently struggle to hold charge, particularly if the vehicle has stood for long periods. Check the coolant and brake fluid for their replacement dates, as both should be renewed on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage to prevent internal corrosion and moisture absorption. Examine all visible rubber components including windscreen wiper blades, drive belts, and suspension dust boots for hardening or cracking. Lift the bonnet and inspect the cam belt or timing chain service history, as Honda Jazz models of this era are typically fitted with a timing chain which is generally long-lasting, but verification is worthwhile. Finally, given the recorded low mileage, take a longer test drive of at least twenty minutes to ensure the engine reaches full operating temperature, listening for any timing chain rattle on cold start, observing the temperature gauge for stable readings, and confirming smooth operation throughout the rev range.