2012 Nissan Primastar 2.0L Diesel · FX04 BRO

The most recent DVSA MOT, dated 1 April 2026, resulted in a failure. The failure was recorded for the nearside front position lamp not functioning, with a concurrent minor comment on a damaged nearside front windscreen. Over the previous three years the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with recurring advisories on the front inner brake disc, anti‑roll bar linkage ball joints and a number of lighting faults. The pattern suggests a maintenance record that is not consistently improving; while the vehicle has passed recent tests, the repeat appearance of the same items indicates that corrective work has either been deferred or not fully resolved. At 99 829 mi the car averages roughly 7 130 mi per year, which sits squarely within the typical usage envelope for a fourteen‑year‑old van. There are no obvious periods of high mileage accumulation that would point to accelerated wear, nor are there large gaps that might hint at prolonged storage. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components should be roughly proportional to age rather than excessive mileage, but the relatively low annual run‑off does mean that components may have been subject to long periods of inactivity, increasing the risk of corrosion and rubber perishing. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the lighting and brake systems that have featured repeatedly in the MOT reports. Verify that the nearside front position lamp, all headlamps and the rear lamps illuminate to full intensity and that the lenses are free from cracks or clouding; a dim headlamp can be a sign of a failing bulb, ballast or wiring fault. Inspect the front inner brake discs for scoring, rust patches or uneven wear – the advisory in 2024 and 2025 indicates the discs are approaching the end of their service life and may soon require resurfacing or replacement, especially if you notice pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes. Examine the off‑side front track rod end ball joint and the anti‑roll bar linkage ball joints for any play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; excessive movement can lead to clunking noises over bumps and premature suspension wear. Check the condition of the nearside rear tyre for the reported cut and assess all tyres for sidewall cracking, tread depth and age – tyres older than six years can harden even if the tread appears adequate. Beyond the specific MOT items, the van’s age warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Look for signs of rust on the chassis rails, wheel arches and under‑body panels, especially if the vehicle has spent time standing idle. Test the 12 V battery voltage and confirm it holds charge, as batteries over ten years often fail unexpectedly. Verify that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals; fluid samples should be clear and free of sludge, and any discolouration may indicate the need for a flush. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for major services such as timing belt or chain replacement (if applicable) and that any outstanding recalls have been addressed. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the van’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of imminent maintenance.