1998 Nissan Elgrand 3.3L Petrol · R105 ABY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 2 April 2026, although the test did carry two advisories that warrant attention. One advisory noted slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint, and the other recorded an oil leak that, while not classified as excessive, is nonetheless present. Looking at the broader pattern of tests, the maintenance trend cannot be described as worsening, but it is certainly not spotless. The vehicle failed on three separate occasions between 2021 and 2025, with defects ranging from dangerously low and exposed rear tyre cords through to brake hose issues, seat belt retractor failure, faulty position lamps, and ineffective wiper blades. That said, the most recent pass suggests that these matters have generally been addressed. However, several advisories have recurred over the years, particularly rear brake fluctuation, oil leaks, and slight wear in the rear shock absorber bushes, which together indicate a vehicle with ongoing minor mechanical deterioration that has not yet crossed the line into dangerous or major territory. With 147,947 miles recorded over approximately 28 years, the annual mileage averages around 5,284 miles, which is notably modest for a vehicle of this age. There are visible gaps in the MOT history between 2023 and 2025, and between the earlier tests, suggesting periods of either limited use or possible off-road storage. Lower annual mileage of this nature can be a double-edged sword; while it reduces wear on high-mileage components such as the engine internals and drivetrain, prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion of ferrous parts, drying and perishing of rubber components including tyres, brake hoses, and suspension bushes, and degradation of fluids. The recurring advisories around shock absorber bushes, ball joint play, and brake fluctuation are consistent with a vehicle that has seen extended periods of light use, where components suffer from age-related deterioration as much as from mechanical wear. Given the advisories recorded at the most recent test, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension. The slight play in the nearside front lower arm ball joint should be monitored for progression; on a test drive, listen for clunks or knocking over speed humps, rough roads, and during full lock manoeuvres, and feel for vagueness or imprecise steering response. Have the ball joint physically inspected for any perceptible rocking or movement beyond manufacturer tolerance, as ball joint failure at the front of a heavy people carrier like this one carries clear safety implications. The recurring rear brake fluctuation advisories suggest intermittent binding or uneven performance from the rear service brakes, possibly due to caliper slide pins seizing, handbrake mechanism wear, or rear drum or disc issues; on test, expect to feel uneven braking effort, potential pulling to one side under heavy application, or rear brake judder, and verify the handbrake holds effectively on an incline. The persistent oil leak advisories should also be investigated to identify whether the source is from the engine sump, valve cover gasket, or rear axle area, as the 2021 test specifically noted fluid loss from the rear axle. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and usage profile of this 28-year-old Nissan Elgrand demands a broader inspection regime. Tyres should be examined carefully for sidewall cracking and perishing even if the tread depth appears adequate, as old rubber hardens and loses grip regardless of mileage. The brake discs and calipers may show corrosion from standing, with possible binding that manifests as a pulling sensation or excessive drag after release. Check the 12V battery health, as vehicles that have stood for extended periods often suffer from failed cells, and verify the condition and freshness of engine coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid, all of which degrade with time rather than mileage. Inspect all brake hoses, suspension bushes, and the steering rack gaiter flagged as deteriorated in 2023 for further degradation, examine the exhaust system for rust and structural integrity given the age, and verify the service book stamps to confirm that time-based servicing such as cambelt replacement, if applicable, has been carried out at appropriate intervals. Finally, confirm that all previous rectification work relating to the dangerous tyre defects, brake hose failure, and seat belt retractor issue has been properly completed with documented evidence, as these were serious safety failures that should have been comprehensively resolved.