2009 Honda Civic 1.3L Petrol · VK59 FTA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance trend indicates a reactive rather than proactive ownership style. The most recent test on 14 May 2026 at 129,134 miles passed with a new advisory for thin rear brake pads. This follows a pattern from previous years where mechanical and electrical faults were only addressed immediately following an MOT failure. While the car is passing its tests, the recurring nature of component failures suggests that parts are replaced only when they prevent compliance. The mileage accumulation remains consistent with a 17-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 7,600 miles per year. Between May 2024 and May 2025, the car covered 2,592 miles, while it covered 2,108 miles in the year leading up to the 2026 test. This low annual usage suggests infrequent travel, which typically reduces wear on the drivetrain but increases the risk of age-related degradation in rubber components, seals, and hydraulic systems. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front suspension assembly, as the record shows a fractured nearside front coil spring and an offside front shock absorber with a serious fluid leak in 2024 and 2025. Although these were reportedly repaired, the buyer should check for signs of weeping or perished bushings on remaining components. The cloudy headlamp lenses noted in 2024 indicate UV degradation of the plastic, which can affect night visibility and should be inspected for pitting. Attention is also required for the braking system. The May 2026 advisory for thin rear pads confirms that components are nearing their service limit. Given the vehicle's age and low annual mileage, a physical check of the underside for structural corrosion is essential, as the MOT only inspects structural integrity in areas easily accessible to the tester. The history of multiple bulb failures suggests the electrical wiring or sockets should be checked for corrosion or intermittent connections.