2020 Nissan Pathfinder 3.5L Petrol · AJ69 RVM

The latest DVSA MOT test for this 2020 Nissan Pathfinder was conducted on 2025-08-19 and resulted in a passing grade, though it included two advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, with no failures or repeated critical issues over the two-year period between tests. The presence of advisories—particularly the low effort on the near-side parking brake and the light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber—suggests that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, there are developing mechanical concerns that should be addressed before they escalate into more serious defects. The absence of failures indicates that the owner has likely maintained a consistent approach to servicing, but proactive intervention is recommended to mitigate potential long-term wear. The recorded mileage of 56,547 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 9,424 miles, which is within the expected range for this model class. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally low nor unusually high for a six-year-old car, though it does not rule out periods of prolonged standing or light use, which can accelerate certain types of wear. For example, standing for extended periods may lead to corrosion in the brake system, particularly on the near-side where the parking brake mechanism could be exposed to moisture and dust. Conversely, higher mileage could indicate more aggressive driving or off-road use, which might have accelerated wear on suspension components, drivetrain elements, or exhaust systems. The absence of significant mileage spikes suggests that the vehicle has been driven consistently, but a thorough inspection should still account for potential hidden wear from either scenario. Given the advisories recorded in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the parking brake system and suspension components. The near-side parking brake effort being low may indicate a binding or seized mechanism, which could lead to incomplete engagement or excessive force required to hold the vehicle stationary. During a test drive, listen for unusual grinding or dragging noises when engaging the parking brake, and check that the vehicle holds firmly without excessive play. The light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber suggests early-stage failure, likely due to internal wear or fluid degradation. Symptoms to watch for include excessive body roll during cornering, a loss of ride control, or a clunking noise from the rear when the vehicle is driven over bumps. The buyer should also inspect the shock absorber for signs of bulging or leakage, and consider replacing it promptly to prevent further suspension damage or reduced handling stability. Additionally, the buyer should verify that the remaining mileage is not excessive for the vehicle’s age, as the suspension and drivetrain may have already experienced cumulative wear beyond the advisory stage. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection beyond the MOT checks. Focus on the brake system, particularly the near-side components, for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, as these could exacerbate the low parking brake effort issue. Check the brake discs and pads for surface corrosion or glazing, and listen for any squeaking or grinding noises when braking, which could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition, ensuring there is no perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as prolonged standing or low usage can lead to a weakened or dead battery. Fluid levels, particularly the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a reminder that fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, the buyer should verify that the vehicle’s service history aligns with Nissan’s recommended maintenance schedule, particularly for the suspension, exhaust, and drivetrain components, to ensure that any wear identified during the inspection has been mitigated or addressed.