2009 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · AV09 TYY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 10 July 2026, although this followed an initial failure on the same day. The failure was attributed to an excessively worn offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, a defect that had been flagged as a minor advisory during the previous year's inspection. This progression indicates a predictable wear pattern for a vehicle of this vintage, and the subsequent pass suggests the fault was rectified. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable, with the vehicle consistently passing its annual tests, though it is now reaching a stage where age-related degradation of rubber and suspension components is becoming evident. With a recorded mileage of 72,347 miles over seventeen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 4,256 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average for a car of this age. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often introduces specific risks associated with prolonged periods of standing. Low-usage vehicles are more susceptible to the perishing of rubber seals, the accumulation of corrosion on brake discs, and the degradation of essential fluids that break down over time regardless of the distance travelled. During a physical inspection, particular attention should be paid to the tyres. The 2025 MOT record highlighted cracking and perishing on both front tyres; the buyer must verify if these have been replaced or if the rubber remains brittle, as this poses a significant safety risk. Furthermore, while the anti-roll bar linkage was recently addressed, the test drive should be used to listen for any remaining suspension clunks or knocks, which could indicate that other bushes or coil springs are nearing the end of their service life. The 2024 advisory regarding pitted and scored front brake discs should also be investigated; feel for any shuddering through the brake pedal or steering wheel during deceleration, which would suggest the discs remain in a degraded state. Given the low annual mileage, it is imperative to examine the service history for calendar-based maintenance rather than mileage-based intervals. Ensure that engine oil and coolant have been changed regularly to prevent internal sludge or corrosion. The 12V battery should be tested for health, as infrequent use often leads to premature failure. Finally, check for signs of binding brake calipers or seized sliders, which are common in cars that spend long periods stationary. A thorough check of the service book stamps will confirm whether the vehicle has been maintained by a professional or if it has suffered from neglect during its periods of low activity.