2012 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel · WN62 WMZ

The vehicle most recently passed its DVSA MOT on 17 October 2022 with no advisory or failure items recorded against its core mechanical systems, although four minor defects were noted concerning dust covers on the front suspension and steering components. These minor items were not sufficient to prevent a pass, indicating that the vehicle was considered roadworthy at the time of test, but the presence of multiple dust cover deteriorations suggests the front suspension area has been subject to age-related perishing rather than a singular isolated issue. Looking at the broader MOT trajectory, the vehicle has passed consistently every year since 2015 with no recorded failures or dangerous defects, and the only advisories issued over this seven-year period relate to front brake pad wear in 2020 and rear tyre wear in 2016 and 2019. This pattern points towards a stable and reasonably maintained maintenance trend, with consumable items being flagged at appropriate service intervals rather than recurring structural or mechanical faults. With a recorded mileage of 110,781 miles over approximately fourteen years, this Honda CR-V has covered an average of around 7,913 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no unusually large gaps between recorded MOT mileages that might indicate extended periods of standing, nor is there evidence of rapid mileage accumulation that would suggest arduous use such as heavy towing or motorway commuting. This moderate annual usage tends to be favourable for longevity of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components, though it does place certain age-related stresses on rubber, plastic, and electronic components that degrade with calendar time irrespective of distance covered. Given that the most recent MOT identified perishing on both front track rod end ball joint dust covers and both front suspension arm ball joint dust covers, a prospective buyer should treat these areas as a priority for physical inspection. While the dust covers were not allowing ingress of contaminants at the time of test, perishing rubber deteriorates progressively, and once split or missing, moisture and grit can accelerate wear on the ball joints themselves, leading to play in the steering or suspension. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and check for uneven or feathered tyre wear across the front axle which would indicate advancing play in the steering or suspension joints. It would be prudent to have the track rod ends and suspension arms physically checked for any free play, as replacement of the components is considerably more involved and costly than simply renewing the protective dust covers at this stage. Beyond the recorded MOT observations, the age and mileage profile of this vehicle warrants several practical inspections that may not be fully captured by annual testing. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber compounds degrade over time even with adequate tread depth, and a tyre that is more than six or seven years old from its DOT date stamp should be considered for replacement regardless of wear. The 12V battery is likely due for renewal given the vehicle's age, and a load test or voltage check is advisable, particularly if the vehicle has been used for short journeys. Brake discs should be inspected for corrosion around the outer edges and for any binding calipers, which is common on vehicles that see moderate rather than high usage. Given the 2020 advisory regarding front brake pad wear, confirmation of the current pad material thickness and disc condition is warranted. Fluid servicing on a calendar basis is also essential, with engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid all due for renewal at intervals dictated by time rather than mileage, particularly given the moderate annual use which may have seen service intervals extended beyond recommended thresholds.