2003 Honda Civic 1.6L Petrol · WV03 FEK

The latest MOT on 3 November 2025 at 31,007 miles recorded a failure, chiefly for a missing off‑side windscreen wiper blade and a near‑side front direction indicator that is slightly discoloured. The same test flagged numerous corrosion items on brake pipes, hoses and rear suspension components, but none of these were judged to be seriously weakened. Over the eight‑year record the pattern of corrosion and occasional brake binding has remained largely consistent, indicating a stable rather than deteriorating maintenance trend. At 31,007 miles the car averages roughly 1,350 miles per year, a very low utilisation for a 2003 model. Mileage rose from 19,107 miles in February 2018 to 28,018 miles in October 2022 and then to the current figure, showing a steady, modest accumulation with no abrupt spikes that would suggest periods of heavy use. The sparse mileage history aligns with the relatively low wear on consumables but also raises the possibility of long idle periods, which can accelerate corrosion on exposed components. A prospective buyer should verify that the off‑side wiper blade is fitted and that both wipers clear the screen effectively, as the recent failure directly relates to safety‑critical visibility. Inspect the rear brake hoses, ferrules and pipe greasing for signs of ongoing corrosion and confirm that the service brakes are free from excessive binding, especially on the off‑side rear unit noted in earlier tests. Examine the rear suspension arms and Macpherson struts for surface rust and ensure that any corrosion has not progressed beyond the “not seriously weakened” classification. Finally, check the tyre sidewalls for bulges or separation, given previous front tyre failures, and confirm headlamp aim and levelling devices operate correctly, as headlamp faults have recurred in past years.