2017 Honda HR-V 1.5L Petrol · SE17 VAD

The most recent MOT test on 2025-12-12 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding years. While the vehicle’s MOT history shows a mix of passing and failing tests, the trend from 2023 onwards appears to be stabilising, with the most critical issues—such as tyre tread depth, exposed tyre cords, and brake pad thickness—now resolved. The advisory regarding near-side front suspension arm pin or bush wear, first noted in 2024, has not been repeated in the latest test, suggesting either corrective action has been taken or the condition is no longer severe enough to warrant failure. However, the recurring headlamp functionality issues from 2022 and 2023 remain unresolved, indicating a persistent electrical fault that should be addressed promptly to avoid future MOT failures. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 102,756 miles at the time of your inspection aligns closely with its age—approximately nine years old—with an average annual usage of around 11,417 miles, which is typical for a car of this model and class. The consistent mileage accumulation suggests regular use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps means the vehicle has likely undergone more stress on its drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems, potentially leading to accelerated wear in these areas. While this does not necessarily indicate imminent failure, it does warrant closer attention to fluid levels, component integrity, and signs of excessive vibration or noise during operation. For the prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the historical tyre and brake issues, as well as the unresolved headlamp faults. Prior to purchase, inspect the front tyres for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or poor alignment service history. Check for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more common in older vehicles due to prolonged exposure to UV degradation and temperature fluctuations, even if mileage is moderate. The brake system should be thoroughly examined, including the condition of the discs, pads, and calipers for signs of corrosion, binding, or excessive heat discolouration. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could signal worn pads or damaged discs, and test brake pedal travel for firmness or sponginess, which may indicate fluid degradation or hydraulic issues. The headlamps should be tested for both dipped and main beam functionality, and any flickering or dimming could point to a failing bulb, wiring issue, or electrical fault in the vehicle’s lighting circuit. In addition to the above, perform a visual and functional inspection of the suspension and steering components. The near-side front suspension arm advisory from previous MOTs suggests wear on the pin or bush, so check for excessive play in the suspension when the vehicle is lifted off the ground or by hand, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate loose or worn suspension bushings. Verify that all fluid levels—brake, coolant, and engine oil—are within specification, as fluid degradation over time can lead to reduced performance and premature component failure. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion on terminals, as older batteries may struggle under the demands of modern electrical systems. Finally, review any service records for the Honda HR-V, particularly for suspension servicing, brake replacements, and tyre rotations, to confirm that maintenance has been kept up to date. If service history is incomplete, arrange a professional inspection to address any potential hidden issues before proceeding with purchase.