2011 Nissan Cube 1.5L Petrol · NY60 FHZ

The most recent MOT on 15 May 2026 was a pass, but it followed a failure recorded two days earlier on 13 May 2026. The failure comprised two advisories for slight play in the nearside and off‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joints and a major defect for a missing off‑side rear fog lamp. The presence of an advisory on the anti‑roll bar linkages indicates a developing wear issue that did not breach the pass/fail threshold, while the missing fog lamp is a clear safety non‑conformity that was rectified before the subsequent pass. Overall the maintenance trend appears to be stabilising, provided the advised components are addressed promptly and the lighting fault remains corrected. At 73 022 miles the vehicle has averaged just under 4 900 miles per year over its fifteen‑year life, which is considerably below the typical UK usage pattern of around 8‑10 000 miles annually. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or extended storage. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on drivetrain and engine components, it can also mask age‑related degradation such as rubber hardening, corrosion in hidden areas, and fluid breakdown. There are no indications of any sudden mileage spikes that would suggest a period of intensive use, so the wear on wear‑items such as brake pads, discs and suspension bushes is likely to be more a function of calendar age than mileage. The advisory concerning slight play in the front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joints should be investigated before purchase. Excessive play can lead to a loose feel in the front end, especially when cornering, and may produce a clunk or knocking noise from the suspension during bumps or during rapid direction changes. A visual inspection should verify the condition of the ball joint caps and the integrity of the surrounding bushings; any signs of corrosion or cracked rubber are red flags. If the joints are worn, replacement is advisable as a preventative measure, as progressive wear can eventually affect the anti‑roll bar’s ability to control body roll, compromising handling stability. The missing off‑side rear fog lamp must be fitted with a correct type lamp and proper wiring; a non‑functional fog lamp reduces visibility in adverse weather and is a legal requirement. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough physical examination is essential. Check the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as ageing tyres can fail even with modest tread depth. Inspect the battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, uneven wear or signs of binding calipers, and confirm that the pads have sufficient material. Look for corrosion on suspension mounting points, especially around the anti‑roll bar brackets, and ensure that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been changed in line with calendar‑based service intervals, typically every 12‑24 months regardless of mileage. A comprehensive test drive should include listening for any unusual noises from the suspension, monitoring steering response for play, and confirming that all lights, including the newly fitted fog lamp, operate correctly. Addressing these age‑related items will give a clearer picture of the car’s true roadworthiness and future maintenance requirements.