2012 Nissan Navara 2.5L Diesel · KM12 WLN

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 May 2026, was recorded as a pass but it was accompanied by several advisories – notably a severely deteriorated dust cover on the off‑side front lower suspension arm, slight play and noise from both rear wheel bearings and the presence of a child‑seat that obstructs a full adult‑belt inspection. Over the past four years the vehicle has oscillated between passes and failures, with recurring major and minor faults on the suspension, exhaust system and drivetrain components, indicating a maintenance trend that is, at best, stagnant and showing signs of gradual deterioration rather than improvement. With 174 890 miles on the clock at the age of fourteen, the Navara averages roughly 12 500 miles per annum, a figure that exceeds typical usage for a light commercial vehicle of this vintage. Such mileage suggests the vehicle has been subjected to sustained load‑bearing duties, which accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake discs, suspension bushings and wheel bearings, and places additional stress on the engine and transmission. The mileage history does not reveal any prolonged periods of inactivity that might have masked corrosion, but the high annual run‑rate implies that many wear items are likely approaching the end of their service life. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front lower suspension arms, inspecting the ball‑joint dust covers for cracks, missing clips or excessive wear, and checking for any play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions. The rear wheel bearings should be examined for lateral movement and any grinding or humming noises while the vehicle is stationary and during a low‑speed drive; a bearing that is already showing slight play may soon require replacement. The constant‑velocity (CV) boots on both front drive shafts have been flagged repeatedly for deterioration, so a visual check for grease leakage, boot splits or torn edges is essential, as contaminated joints can lead to joint failure. The exhaust system still shows a history of leaks and a defective mounting, so the buyer should listen for hissing or ticking sounds, especially under acceleration, and verify that the exhaust pipe is securely attached and free of cracks. Finally, ensure the engine management light is extinguished; a persistent MIL indication may point to unresolved sensor or emissions issues that could affect fuel economy and emissions compliance. Beyond the documented faults, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough inspection of time‑related items. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could indicate misalignment or suspension degradation. The 12 V battery, likely over a decade old, should be load‑tested to confirm it can hold charge, and the terminals inspected for corrosion. Brake discs, already noted as pitted, should be measured for remaining thickness and checked for any scoring that could cause shudder under braking. Given the vehicle’s mileage and age, it is prudent to confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s service intervals, as fluid degradation can lead to overheating and component wear. A full service history, with stamps for major items such as suspension arm replacements, wheel bearing fits and exhaust repairs, will provide additional confidence in the vehicle’s overall roadworthiness.