1987 NISSAN MICRA1.0L Petrol

This 1987 Nissan Micra has demonstrated a concerning deterioration trend in critical structural and mechanical components over the past three years, despite passing its most recent MOT in June 2025. The last test at 86,549 miles recorded no defects, though the preceding failures in 2023 and 2024 reveal persistent issues with rear suspension integrity, wheel bearings, and underbody corrosion. The 2024 failure alone highlighted severe corrosion in the near- and offside rear suspension mounting points—directly compromising structural strength—while the 2023 test confirmed excessive wheel bearing play and imbalanced front brakes. These recurring faults suggest either prolonged neglect or repeated stopgap repairs rather than consistent maintenance. The bonnet catch and reverse lights have also been intermittent problems, indicating basic electrical and minor structural upkeep has been inconsistent. The recorded mileage of 86,549 miles over 39 years equates to approximately 2,219 miles annually, a figure unusually low for a vehicle of this age. Between June 2023 and June 2025, the mileage increased by just 1,000 miles, suggesting the car was either stored for extended periods or used very lightly. Notably, the 2024 tests occurred within six days of each other (May 22 and May 28) with minimal mileage change (31 miles), which could imply the vehicle was moved for inspection rather than driven regularly. This low mileage pattern raises questions about whether wear-and-tear items like tyres, brakes, and suspension have been properly serviced or if the car has sat unsupported for years, accelerating corrosion and component degradation. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate, thorough inspection of the rear suspension components, particularly the near- and offside mounting points, which were flagged in 2024 for excessive corrosion compromising structural strength. The wheel bearings, tested in 2023, should be reassessed for play or noise, as excessive wear can lead to catastrophic failure. Front suspension bushes, noted as worn in both 2023 tests, may now require replacement to prevent alignment issues or uneven tyre wear. Underbody corrosion—mentioned in multiple tests—demands visual confirmation, especially around the sills and wheel arches, where rust can weaken the chassis. The braking system, previously imbalanced, should be checked for uneven pad or disc wear, and the reverse lights, which failed to operate in 2023, should be tested for continuity and functionality. While the most recent MOT passed without defects, the history underscores a vehicle with a history of deferred maintenance. Buyers should treat this as a high-risk purchase, particularly for structural integrity and suspension reliability, and factor in the likelihood of significant repair costs for rust-damaged components or worn-out bearings. The low mileage does not mitigate these risks—it may have exacerbated them.