2016 Nissan Cabstar 2.5L Diesel · WK16 PPX

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Nissan Cabstar was conducted on 2025-07-23 and resulted in a pass, though it included several advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years appears to be mixed, with a notable pattern of recurring issues—particularly in the braking system, suspension components, and electrical faults—though the latest test shows no major failures. The vehicle has passed most recent MOTs without critical defects, but the history of persistent minor and advisory items suggests that some wear and potential underlying issues have not been fully resolved. The presence of a brake fluid warning lamp in multiple tests indicates a recurring concern that should be addressed promptly, as it may signal low fluid levels, leaking brake lines, or a failing master cylinder, all of which can compromise braking performance. The recorded mileage of 104,351 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,435 miles per annum, which is typical for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit evidence of long periods of inactivity or excessive mileage accumulation, though the absence of significantly higher mileage figures could imply either lighter usage or potential underreporting. From a mechanical perspective, this mileage level is consistent with moderate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, but the presence of repeated advisories—such as corroded bumper mountings and worn suspension bushes—suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to some stress, possibly from rough driving or prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. The rear tyre wear advisory from the latest MOT, particularly the edge wear, may indicate uneven loading or misalignment, which could worsen if not addressed. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a test drive and upon physical examination are the braking system, suspension, and electrical components. The recurring brake fluid warning lamp suggests that the vehicle’s brake system may be compromised, with symptoms to watch for including a spongy or soft pedal feel, uneven brake pad wear, or a grinding noise when applying brakes. Listen for any unusual clunks or rattles in the suspension during cornering or over bumps, as the worn rear suspension bushes and front steering rack free play could lead to handling instability. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the brake master cylinder, wheel bearings, and suspension mounts, as corrosion and leaks are common in older vehicles. Additionally, visually inspect the tyres for signs of uneven wear beyond the advisories noted, and ensure the tread depth is legal and evenly distributed. The front bumper mountings, which were corroded in the 2024 MOT, should be checked for structural integrity, as rust can compromise the vehicle’s safety and aesthetic appeal. Beyond the test drive, a thorough physical inspection should include checking the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can indicate age-related degradation even if the tread is legal. Given the vehicle’s age and the presence of a 12V battery in the service history, test the battery’s charge and clean the terminals to prevent corrosion. The steering rack’s slight free play and the front suspension arm ball joint play detected in previous MOTs suggest that the vehicle’s steering and suspension components may require periodic servicing, particularly if the owner plans to drive it regularly. For fluid servicing, consider replacing the brake fluid, considering it may have degraded over time due to the repeated warnings, and top up or replace the windscreen washer fluid, as the washer system failed in a previous MOT. Finally, verify that the service book is up to date, as the vehicle’s age and mileage may warrant a full suspension and drivetrain inspection, including checking the rear hub seals for leaks and ensuring the parking brake mechanism is functioning correctly. If the vehicle has been driven infrequently, inspect for standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the wheel arches and exhaust system, as prolonged idling can accelerate rust formation.