2017 Nissan Navara 2.3L Diesel · M19 NBM

A persistent theme across the MOT history is the recurring corrosion of both front brake pipes together with progressive wear of the anti‑roll bar bushings, punctuated by occasional major defects such as a fractured front coil spring, an inoperative engine MIL indicator and a failed registration‑plate lamp. The latest test on 3 February 2026 was passed, yet the same brake‑pipe and anti‑roll‑bar advisories re‑appear, indicating that the underlying issues have not been fully resolved and remain a structural risk. At 163,776 miles for a nine‑year‑old Navara the annual average is roughly 18,200 miles, well above the typical UK figure for a light‑commercial vehicle. The MOTs have been recorded almost yearly with no significant gaps, suggesting continuous use rather than prolonged storage. Such mileage accelerates wear on consumables – brake pads, tyres, suspension joints and drivetrain components – and amplifies the relevance of the recurring advisories, as higher kilometre counts increase the likelihood of corrosion and metal fatigue. When inspecting the vehicle, give particular attention to the front brake lines: look for surface rust, grease accumulation and any signs of fluid seepage at the joints, and test the pedal for a firm, consistent feel without sponginess. Examine the anti‑roll‑bar pins and bushes on both sides for excessive play or cracked rubber, and listen for clunking or knocking when driving over bumps or during hard cornering, which would signal further degradation. The central front oil leak noted in the 2026 advisory should be visible as oil spots beneath the engine bay; verify that the oil level is stable and that there is no persistent drippage onto the under‑tray. Given the previous fracture of the off‑side front coil spring, confirm that both front springs are intact, with no unusual squeaks or uneven ride height, and inspect the surrounding mounting points for corrosion. Finally, ensure the engine management light illuminates correctly – a functional MIL is required – and scan for any stored fault codes that could indicate lingering electronic issues. Verify that the registration‑plate lamp and all other external lights operate, as a failure caused a recent MOT rejection. Check the tread depth of the front tyres, which have repeatedly been flagged as close to the legal limit, and confirm that the sidewalls are free from cuts or bulges. A thorough road‑test that includes steady‑state braking, a gentle acceleration run, and a short high‑speed stretch will reveal whether the cumulative wear evident in the MOT record has translated into perceptible performance problems.