2014 Honda Civic 1.3L Petrol · SC14 RKA

The most recent MOT on 25 March 2026 was passed, but it was accompanied by a series of advisories covering rear brake pad wear, rear tyre cracking, slight corrosion on a rear brake disc and a minor defect on the rear registration plate. Compared with the 12 January 2023 failure – which involved a dangerous front‑tyre bulge, a non‑functional position lamp and insufficient washer fluid – the vehicle has moved from a failing status to a passing one, albeit with a growing list of wear‑related advisories. The pattern over the last five tests suggests a modest improvement in overall compliance, yet the recurring brake and tyre observations indicate that wear is progressing and will soon require corrective maintenance. At 78 633 miles the car averages roughly 6 500 miles per annum, which is typical for a 2014 model. The mileage does not reveal any periods of unusually high use that would accelerate component fatigue, but the relatively modest annual distance also hints at possible extended periods of inactivity. Prolonged standing can promote tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings, so the age of the vehicle remains a more significant factor than the mileage alone. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the braking system. The rear pads are already thin and will need replacement soon; inspect the pad thickness and listen for any squeal or reduced pedal feel during a test drive. The front brakes were noted as imbalanced and the off‑side front service brake showed binding – feel for any pull to one side under braking, a spongy pedal or a high‑pitched whine that could indicate a sticking caliper. All four brake discs exhibit pitting or slight corrosion, so assess disc surface condition and verify whether any resurfacing or replacement has been carried out recently. Examine the tyre tread and sidewalls for cracking, especially on the rear tyres, and ensure there are no bulges or feather‑edge wear that could presage a failure; uneven wear patterns may point to mis‑aligned suspension or worn bushes. Given the vehicle’s age, also check the condition of the 12 V battery, the integrity of the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids, and look for any signs of corrosion on suspension joints, chassis mounts and the exhaust system. Verify that the registration plate is legible and securely fixed, and confirm that the windscreen washer system now delivers adequate fluid. A thorough visual inspection of the tyre sidewalls for perishing, a check of the battery’s cranking performance, and a review of the service book for timely fluid changes will help ensure that the car remains reliable and road‑worthy beyond the next MOT.