2018 Honda HR-V 1.5L Petrol · WM67 LRU

The most recent MOT test for the 2018 Honda HR-V was conducted on 2025-10-07 and resulted in a pass, though it did include two advisories that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is stable, with no failures recorded between 2023 and 2025, and only minor advisories present in the latest test. The repeated advisories on tyre wear and rear shock absorber misting suggest that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, there are areas of wear that may require attention before they escalate into more serious issues. The presence of these advisories—particularly the rear shock absorber oil misting and tyre perishing—indicates that the vehicle has been driven with some exposure to road conditions, though not excessively aggressive. This consistency in advisories rather than failures implies a pattern of gradual wear rather than sudden deterioration, though the buyer should monitor these components closely to prevent future roadworthiness concerns. The recorded mileage of 34,056 miles for a vehicle aged eight years is notably low, averaging approximately 4,257 miles per year. Such a low mileage rate is unusual for an eight-year-old car, especially one that appears to have been maintained regularly, as it suggests either very light usage, long periods of inactivity, or potentially less demanding driving conditions. However, low mileage can also mask underlying issues, particularly if the vehicle has spent significant time stationary. Standing for prolonged periods can lead to issues such as brake disc corrosion, standing corrosion on suspension components, or degradation of fluids like brake fluid and coolant due to evaporation or contamination over time. Additionally, low mileage does not guarantee that wear patterns are benign; for instance, tyre wear advisories may indicate that the vehicle has been driven in a manner that accelerates tread loss, even if the mileage is low. Given the advisories on tyre wear and rear shock absorbers, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the edges of the inner treads where the latest advisories were noted. Look for signs of uneven wear, which could indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in the suspension, such as clunking or excessive bouncing, which may suggest worn shock absorbers or damaged suspension bushes. The misting of oil in the offside rear shock absorber should be investigated further, as oil misting often precedes complete failure of the shock absorber, which can lead to poor ride quality and handling. The buyer should also check for any fluid leaks around the shock absorber mounts and ensure that the suspension is free from excessive play or binding. For practical checks given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the rubber has been exposed to UV light and temperature fluctuations for an extended period. Inspect the brake system for any signs of corrosion or binding, particularly on the discs and calipers, as standing can accelerate corrosion. The 12-volt battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as low mileage vehicles that sit for long periods can develop weak batteries. Additionally, the coolant system should be checked for signs of degradation, as fluids can break down over time even without significant mileage. Finally, the buyer should verify that the service book has been updated, particularly for fluid changes and timing belt replacement if applicable, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the service history is incomplete, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the vehicle’s mechanical condition.