2002 Honda Civic 1.6L Petrol · RV02 AOU

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-12-24, where it passed despite minor issues including light oil misting on the offside front shock absorber and worn front wishbone bushes. However, the failure recorded on the same day reveals a worsening trend — the nearside front shock absorber now exhibits a serious fluid leak, indicating a mechanical breakdown that was not addressed between tests. The recurring suspension component failures, coupled with lamp defects and exhaust lambda issues, suggest a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than a stable or improving condition. Mileage progression shows a consistent, low annual average of roughly 4,502 miles over 24 years, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The jump from 92,486 miles in October 2023 to 100,501 miles in October 2024, then to 108,044 miles in December 2025, indicates steady but modest usage. There are no signs of sudden mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity, which would suggest storage or neglect. The data is sparse between 2023 and 2024, but the 2024-2025 tests confirm the car has been driven regularly, albeit with increasing mechanical wear. Buyers should inspect the front suspension system closely, particularly the shock absorbers and wishbone bushes, as these components have failed or been flagged twice in consecutive MOTs. The nearside shock absorber’s fluid leak is a serious defect that requires immediate replacement, not just repair. Brake calipers and discs should be checked for binding or uneven wear, as the 2025 test noted a check light and exhaust lambda issues that may indicate underlying system faults. Headlamp lenses, while minor, are defective on both sides — a cosmetic but legal issue that may need replacement for compliance. Structural integrity, especially around the anti-roll bar linkage and chassis mounts, should be examined for corrosion or play, as these were flagged in 2024 and remain unresolved.