2016 Nissan Juke 1.5L Diesel · AC05 BUT

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 31 March 2026 with no defects recorded, a positive immediate result that nevertheless warrants scrutiny because the car failed on the previous day with three significant items. On 30 March 2026 the Nissan Juke was presented for retest and failed on a Dangerous nearside front tyre with tread depth below the legal 1.6mm minimum, alongside Major advisories against both the nearside and offside front track rod end ball joints for excessive play. The fact that these failures were addressed and rectified within a single day suggests prompt remedial work, likely replacement of both track rod ends and at least one front tyre, but it remains essential to confirm that the parts fitted are of satisfactory quality and that the steering geometry has been correctly set via a four-wheel alignment. Looking at the broader trend across the last five years of testing, the record shows two clean passes in 2020 and 2023, several advisories relating to brake pipe corrosion and tyre condition between 2021 and 2024, and a minor advisory against the nearside front suspension arm ball joint in 2025. The cluster of steering and suspension advisories in 2025 and 2026 indicates a developing wear pattern at the front end that should be monitored carefully. With 78,905 miles recorded over ten years, the Juke is averaging approximately 7,890 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and consistent with regular but moderate usage. The mileage progression across the MOT history shows steady accumulation without any extended gaps or unusually rapid jumps, which suggests the car has been driven consistently rather than left standing for prolonged periods or used excessively. This kind of usage profile is generally favourable for mechanical health, as regular driving keeps fluids circulated, seals lubricated, and prevents the corrosion issues that can affect vehicles left idle for long intervals. The annual mileage sits comfortably below the UK average, meaning that wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, transmission, and clutch should be moderate rather than severe at this point, though age-related deterioration of rubber and plastic parts remains a consideration regardless of mileage. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing area to examine is the front suspension and steering assembly, given the recent track rod end replacements and the 2025 advisory on the nearside front suspension arm ball joint. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonking or knocking noises from the front when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn or prematurely failing suspension components. The nearside front ball joint advisory in particular warrants a physical inspection, as excessive play in this joint can lead to imprecise steering, uneven tyre wear across the front axle, and in extreme cases separation of the component. It would be prudent to request evidence that the suspension arm ball joint has been inspected or replaced, and to verify that the steering is tracking straight without pulling to either side, which would indicate that the geometry is correctly set following the recent track rod work. A thorough inspection on a ramp or over a pit is highly advisable to assess the condition of the broader front suspension, including the anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and coil springs, as these are known wear items on the Juke platform at this mileage. Beyond the steering and suspension concerns, the advisories relating to brake pipe corrosion in 2021 and 2022, where all brake pipes were noted as coated in grease, suggest that the underside of the vehicle should be carefully examined for any subsequent corrosion development or fluid leaks. Brake pipes on a ten-year-old vehicle are particularly vulnerable to corrosion at jacking points, flex line junctions, and along the underbody, and any signs of rust bubbling, flaking, or wet residue around the braking system should be treated seriously. Given the age of the vehicle, it is also sensible to verify the service history including confirmation of regular timing chain or cambelt replacement if applicable to the engine variant, along with evidence of recent replacement of the 12V battery, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil, as these are time-sensitive service items that degrade regardless of mileage. The tyres should be inspected for even wear patterns across both axles, as the previous Dangerous failure on the nearside front and the 2024 advisories on both rear tyres for cracking and perishing indicate that the vehicle may be harder on its rubber than average. Finally, a check of the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly at the rear silencer and mounting brackets, is recommended for any ten-year-old vehicle, and the buyer should listen for any blowing sounds or rattles from the exhaust during a test drive.