2007 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · KH57 AAE

The most recent MOT on 7 March 2026 was a pass, but it carried two advisories concerning the front brake disc being pitted or scored and the front brake pads being thin. The preceding test a few weeks earlier had failed for the same brake issues plus a major finding of an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm ball‑joint and an ineffective windscreen wiper. Earlier in the series the car also failed for a supplementary restraint system fault and showed advisory wear on a front tyre and play in the steering rack inner joint. Overall the pattern shows a vehicle that has required intermittent corrective work, with the latest pass indicating that the most serious defects (ball‑joint and wiper) have likely been remedied, yet the brake wear remains unresolved and will need attention soon. At 136,984 mi the Note has accumulated roughly 7,200 mi per annum over its 19‑year life, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope. There are no obvious mileage spikes or long dormant periods evident from the MOT data, suggesting the car has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for extended stretches. This moderate annual mileage means that wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components will be consistent with age‑related degradation rather than excessive mileage abuse, but it also implies that any deferred maintenance will have progressed in step with the calendar. Prospective buyers should give the front braking system the highest priority. Inspect the discs for deep scoring, heat‑discoloration or uneven wear and measure pad thickness; a disc replacement is likely required within the next few thousand miles and new pads should be fitted concurrently. During a test drive listen for any pulsation or shudder through the pedal, especially under hard braking, and feel for any pull to one side that could indicate uneven disc wear or a sticking caliper. Verify that the wiper blades now clear the screen effectively and check the condition of the wiper motor and linkage, as a faulty system can be a safety issue in wet weather. The nearside ball‑joint that previously failed a major inspection should be examined for any play or clunk when the wheel is rocked; any excessive movement will manifest as a knocking sound from the front corner and may require replacement of the joint and associated bushings. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven tread wear that could point to mis‑alignment or suspension issues; the off‑side front tyre was previously close to the legal limit, so confirm that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm and that the wear pattern is symmetrical. Check the steering rack for any looseness or binding, especially in the inner joints, by turning the wheel at low speed and noting any dead zones or excessive effort. Inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust. Test the 12 V battery voltage and load, as a 19‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Finally, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within their recommended intervals (typically every two years for brake fluid) and that the timing chain or belt (as applicable to the engine type) has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, as failure of these items can lead to costly engine damage.