2012 Honda Jazz 1.3L Petrol · YT12 XAL

This Honda Jazz has maintained a generally stable roadworthiness profile over the past four MOT cycles, though the most recent test in June 2025 revealed a critical suspension issue that warrants immediate attention. The vehicle passed without fail in 2024 and 2023, with no recorded defects, but the June 2025 inspection flagged severe deterioration of the offside front upper anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover—a component that, when compromised, exposes the joint to contamination and accelerated wear. While the tester did not classify this as a fail, the explicit mention of its condition suggests a latent risk to handling and alignment stability. The absence of further advisories in the latest test implies the tester may have deemed the vehicle drivable despite this flaw, but buyers should treat this as a red flag for potential suspension degradation over time. The recorded mileage of 71,765 miles at the time of the most recent MOT indicates a conservative usage pattern for a vehicle of this age, averaging just over 5,000 miles annually. This suggests either light daily use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can have contrasting effects on wear. Notably, there is a 12-month gap between the 2022 and 2023 MOTs, during which the vehicle accumulated 5,239 miles—a relatively modest increase that aligns with the overall trend. The 2022 test itself was concerning, as it recorded tyre wear and damage on both front and rear offside tyres, indicating either neglect or a lack of regular rotation or pressure checks. The fact that no further tyre-related advisories appeared in subsequent tests suggests either replacement or correction, but buyers should verify the current tread depth and lateral wear patterns. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension components, particularly the anti-roll bar linkages and bushings, which may show signs of oil leakage or excessive play. The 2022 tyre advisories imply a need to check for uneven wear on all four wheels, as this could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension parts. Corrosion should also be assessed around wheel arches, subframes, and the rear axle, as the vehicle’s age increases the risk of structural weakening. While the brakes have not been explicitly flagged, the low mileage does not preclude wear—buyers should verify disc thickness, caliper binding, and pad material integrity. Finally, the lack of emissions-related advisories in recent tests is a positive sign, but a post-MOT emissions check would confirm whether the catalytic converter or fuel system remains efficient.