2011 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · SP11 YCS

A recurring theme of steering and front-end wear advisories runs through this Honda CR-V's MOT history, suggesting that the steering rack and its associated linkages have been a long-standing area of attention rather than a one-off concern. The 2023 test surfaced advisories for play in the steering rack inner joint and gearbox mounting defect, alongside a free play reading at the steering wheel, and a 2021 advisory noted slight play in the nearside front inner drag link end ball joint. While the vehicle passed its most recent assessment on 30 September 2025 with no defects recorded, the cumulative picture across five recorded tests includes one failure in 2023 for headlamp, repeater, bumper, and diesel particulate filter warning light issues, plus a separate same-day pass. The trend over the last two cycles has been stable rather than deteriorating, but the steering-related history is the defining mechanical characteristic a buyer must weigh. At 118,287 miles over roughly fifteen years of service, this CR-V has averaged around 7,886 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this age and is neither notably low nor unusually high. There is a visible gap between the May 2019 test and the September 2020 test, and another between October 2021 and May 2023, indicating periods where the vehicle was either not presented for testing or fell outside the three-year post-registration MOT window. Mileage progression between recorded tests appears steady rather than erratic, suggesting consistent use rather than long-term storage or sudden long-distance accumulation. At this mileage, a mid-2010s diesel CR-V will naturally show wear on suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, clutch or torque converter components, and turbocharger-related items, even if none have yet been flagged specifically. The most pressing area to inspect on a physical viewing is the steering assembly, given the rack inner joint play recorded in 2023 and the drag link ball joint play from 2021. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, particularly from the nearside, and feel for any looseness, rattling, or slack when turning the steering wheel lock to lock at low speed. A wandering front end, uneven tyre wear across the front axle, or a steering wheel that does not self-centre smoothly could point to worn rack mounts or tie rod ends. The 2023 advisory for a defective gearbox mounting should also prompt a physical check for movement on the engine and gearbox when reversing and applying drive, as well as any clunking under load. The 2023 failure included an illuminated diesel particulate filter warning light, and although this does not appear in subsequent records, it warrants direct confirmation that the DPF has been properly addressed, either through forced regeneration, cleaning, or replacement, rather than simply reset. Inspect the under-bonnet area and tailpipe for excessive soot deposits and check that no warning lights are active on the dashboard. The 2023 bumper insecurity and front and rear bumper damage advisories from 2019 suggest cosmetic wear that may hide underlying clip or bracket damage, so ensure bumpers are securely mounted and aligned. Finally, the 2025 same-day failure for an inoperative reversing lamp is a minor item, but it indicates that basic electrical checks on bulbs and reversing switch operation should be made before purchase, and the slightly discoloured rear direction indicators and side repeater from 2019 are worth verifying are now functioning correctly and free from lens damage.