2001 Honda Civic 1.4L Petrol · WN51 FNK

The most recent DVSA MOT, dated 25 October 2021, recorded a failure for the windscreen wiper’s inability to clear the screen, with a further minor fault for an off‑side registration plate lamp and several advisories covering tyre wear, anti‑roll bar linkage play and steering rack joint movement. Although the test was also logged as passed, the presence of a failure means the vehicle did not meet the legal standard at that time. Over the preceding six years the record shows a pattern of recurring tyre degradation, corrosion of brake pipework and progressive wear of suspension bushes and anti‑roll bar joints, interspersed with occasional dangerous tyre depth failures. The trend is therefore clearly worsening rather than stabilising, indicating that key safety‑critical components have not been consistently addressed. With a recorded 128,118 mi on a 2001 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,100 mi, which is low for a vehicle of this age. Such modest usage often points to long periods of inactivity or very gentle driving, both of which can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber and metal components despite the low wear figures. Low mileage does not compensate for the calendar ageing of tyres, seals and battery cells, and it can mask the onset of corrosion on suspension and steering linkages that may have been exposed while the car was stationary for extended spells. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set a thorough visual and tactile inspection. All four tyres must be measured for tread depth; any reading below 1.6 mm is illegal, and sidewalls should be examined for cracking, perishing or bulging, especially on the off‑side front and rear where advisories have been recorded. During a test drive listen for clunking or knocking from the front suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps, as this may indicate excessive play in the lower anti‑roll bar ball joint, worn suspension arm bushes or deteriorated rubber bushings. The steering rack should be checked for any looseness or vague feedback, which would corroborate the advisory about inner joint play, and the brakes must be tested for shudder, uneven pull or a spongy pedal that could betray a corroded front brake pipe or compromised hydraulic lines. Given the vehicle’s age and the history of corrosion, a comprehensive inspection of the under‑body for rust, especially around the rear sub‑frame and wheel arches, is essential. The 12 V battery should be load‑tested, as prolonged periods of storage can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. All fluid reservoirs—coolant, brake fluid, gearbox oil and power‑steering fluid—should be examined for colour, level and signs of contamination, and a full change is advisable if service stamps are absent or dated beyond the recommended intervals. Finally, request the full service book and any receipts for recent tyre, brake or suspension work to confirm that the noted advisories have been rectified, and ensure that any corrective work is documented before committing to purchase.