2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5L Petrol · AE67 KTA

The 2018 Nissan Maxima’s most recent MOT test on 2025-03-19 passed without defects, though it was preceded by a failure on the preceding day at the same mileage—an anomaly that suggests either a minor administrative oversight or a temporary issue resolved before inspection. The lack of recurring faults in the past year indicates no obvious worsening trend in structural or mechanical integrity, though the abrupt failure-to-pass sequence warrants scrutiny of recent service records. The vehicle’s current MOT is just over a year old, which is within the standard 12-month validity period, but the repeated test at identical mileage raises questions about whether the car was driven between tests or sat stationary. The recorded mileage of 53,872 miles over eight years averages approximately 6,734 miles annually, a rate consistent with typical light-to-moderate usage for this age. There are no gaps or spikes in the MOT history to suggest prolonged inactivity or aggressive driving, though the absence of intermediate service records means no confirmation of scheduled maintenance like suspension servicing or brake fluid changes. The lack of mileage progression between the 2025-03-18 failure and 2025-03-19 pass—despite identical odometer readings—implies the vehicle was likely not moved between tests, which could indicate a temporary issue rather than a pattern of deferred maintenance. Given the sparse MOT record, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension components, particularly the rear axle and bushings, as binding brakes were flagged in past tests (though not explicitly noted here). The abrupt failure-to-pass sequence suggests potential issues with brake caliper binding or wheel bearing wear, both of which can escalate if ignored. Additionally, the vehicle’s age and mileage necessitate a thorough check for corrosion at wheel arches, subframe, and sills, as well as the integrity of coil springs and shock absorbers for signs of fatigue or leakage. The lack of defects in the most recent pass does not preclude underlying wear, so a detailed mechanical assessment remains essential.