2005 Nissan Almera 1.5L Petrol · FE55 ABK

The latest MOT test on 2022-09-27 resulted in a pass, though it was achieved on the same day a related fail was issued for headlamp beam image and a registration plate lamp issue, both of which were rectified at the same visit. Looking at the overall trend across the recorded tests, there are clear signs of progressing wear rather than stable condition. The 2021 test noted suspension ball joint play on the offside front and an offside rear brake binding advisory, while the 2022 test escalated these concerns with an offside front brake binding advisory, worn front anti-roll bar linkage bushes on both sides, and the first appearance of power steering seepage from the rack itself. The repetition of brake binding advisories on different corners between tests points to caliper slide pins or piston issues developing across the system rather than a one-off event, and the emergence of steering rack seepage is a notable new concern. With the vehicle being 21 years old and showing only 93,611 recorded miles, the annual average is approximately 4,458 miles per year, which is well below typical usage and strongly suggests extended periods of standing. The MOT history confirms this pattern, with a gap of around three years between the most recent test and the prior visit, meaning the car has spent considerable time inactive. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on major drivetrain components but accelerates calendar-related degradation of rubber, seals, fluids, and electrical items. Standing periods also promote brake disc corrosion, caliper seizure, and moisture accumulation in the engine and gearbox oil, all of which should be carefully evaluated. For a prospective buyer, the recurring brake binding advisories warrant a focused inspection of all four calipers and their sliding mechanisms, as binding calipers can pull the vehicle to one side under light braking and will quickly overheat the affected disc. On a test drive, listen for clunks from the front anti-roll bar links over speed humps and listen for any knocking from the suspension arms, and check for uneven front tyre wear that would suggest worn bushes or geometry misalignment. The power steering seepage from the rack should be inspected at the rack ends and gaiters for fresh residue, and a low speed lock-to-lock manoeuvre should be performed to detect any change in steering effort or whining noise that might indicate worsening internal wear within the rack. Also verify whether the headlamp aim issue was properly resolved by checking beam pattern on a level surface against a wall. Beyond the advisories, this particular Nissan Almera demands age-related inspection regardless of its modest mileage. Examine all tyres closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber compounds harden significantly after six to seven years even when tread remains legal, and verify the production date on the sidewall markings. Inspect brake discs for severe surface corrosion, particularly on the rear drums if fitted, and confirm that the handbrake holds the vehicle on an incline as seized rear mechanisms are common on stored vehicles. Check the 12V battery for its date code and test the cranking speed, as batteries degrade from standing rather than use. Finally, confirm that coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid have been replaced on a time basis rather than mileage alone, request evidence of recent cambelt and water pump replacement given the engine age, and ensure there are no signs of fluid pooling beneath the engine or from the steering rack area after the vehicle has been parked.