2002 Nissan Micra 1.0L Petrol · AP02 NFK

The 998cc petrol Micra is among the most frugal small cars of its era, returning roughly 45-50 mpg in mixed driving and delivering low fuel bills. Road tax for a pre-2006 petrol car of this engine size falls into a low band, typically £0-£35 annually, and insurance should sit in group 2-4, making it one of the cheapest cars to insure on the UK market.

Routine maintenance is straightforward and parts are inexpensive due to the Micra's long production run and mechanical simplicity. Annual servicing including an oil change, filters, and plugs should cost £150-£250 at an independent garage. However, this particular vehicle may require additional corrosion-related work that would push maintenance costs considerably higher in the short term.

Estimated annual running costs: £800-£1,200, assuming no major corrosion remediation is needed. If welding or structural repair is required, add £500-£1,500 for that work to be completed professionally.

The single most important inspection point is the offside rear inner sill and suspension mounting area flagged in the May 2022 MOT failure. Place the car on a ramp or use a torch to look underneath — fresh paint, underseal, or weld beads suggest repair, but verify the quality. Tap the surrounding metal with a screwdriver handle; a dull thud rather than a ring indicates hidden corrosion behind panel repairs.

Given the Micra's known weak points across the model range, also examine the rear suspension arm bushes, front headlamp lenses for UV haze (a common MOT failure item on this model), and all four tyres for uneven wear which can indicate alignment or suspension issues. The horn failure from 2023 is trivial but worth confirming works during a test drive, along with all other electrical items given the car's age.

Finally, check for oil leaks around the cam cover and from the front of the engine, as 998cc Micras of this vintage often seep oil past ageing gaskets. Inspect the exhaust downpipe and rear silencer for corrosion, and ensure the cooling system holds pressure — a simple look at the coolant header tank for creamy residue can reveal head gasket concerns.