2002 Nissan Almera 1.8L Petrol · DG02 AUR

The 2002 Nissan Almera presents a worsening maintenance trend, culminating in the February 2023 test at 139,695 miles where the tester flagged multiple defects. Previously passing cleanly in 2018 and 2020, the vehicle accumulated several faults by 2023. The tester flagged corroded rear brake pipes covered in grease, an engine oil leak, and defective headlamp lenses. A worn offside rear tyre also appeared on the record. These issues indicate a lapse in routine underbody care and consumable oversight over the last few years. The presence of corroded brake lines covered in grease suggests a temporary patch rather than a permanent repair, pointing to deferred maintenance. The recorded mileage of 139,695 miles equates to roughly 5,800 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle. Analyzing the intervals reveals a notable gap between June 2018 at 115,050 miles and March 2020 at 118,843 miles, covering just 3,793 miles over nearly two years. From March 2020 to February 2023, the mileage increased by 20,852 miles over three years, averaging closer to 7,000 miles annually. This sporadic usage pattern, long periods of standing interspersed with moderate use, often accelerates corrosion on brake components and degrades rubber seals, which aligns with the oil leak and corroded brake pipes found in 2023. A prospective buyer must thoroughly inspect the underbody and braking system before purchase. The tester specifically identified corrosion on both rear brake pipes, a serious structural risk that demands immediate scrutiny. The grease coating applied to these pipes likely masks active rust, requiring a proper inspection to determine if the lines need replacement. Beyond the brakes, the engine oil leak requires diagnosis to ascertain the source and severity, whether stemming from a failed gasket or a leaking seal. The deteriorated front number plate, flagged since 2021, and the defective headlamp lenses, flagged in 2023, point to neglected cosmetic upkeep. Check the inner edges of the rear tyres for uneven wear, which could indicate suspension issues or binding calipers not yet flagged on the MOT.