2010 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · AX10 BWC

The most recent MOT test for this 2010 Nissan Micra was conducted on 2025-04-19, resulting in a failure with multiple major defects, including a non-functional horn, faulty offside front position lamps, and critical suspension issues such as a fractured near-side front coil spring and missing wheel fixings on three sides of the rear axle. The pattern of repeated failures over the past three years suggests a deteriorating mechanical condition rather than a stable or improving maintenance trend. While some advisories from earlier tests—such as worn tyres and minor suspension play—were present, the severity of the latest failures indicates that wear and potential structural compromise have escalated significantly, particularly in the suspension, wheel fixings, and electrical systems. The repeated presence of major faults in the same areas, such as the coil spring failure and wheel fixings missing, strongly implies underlying fatigue or manufacturing defects that have not been addressed adequately. The recorded mileage of 196,759 miles for a vehicle aged 16 years represents an exceptionally high annual usage rate of approximately 12,297 miles, which is far above the typical mileage accumulation for its class. Such rapid mileage accumulation accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, while also exposing the vehicle to greater stress from road conditions and driving habits. The absence of significant mileage gaps—suggesting continuous use—further compounds the risk of cumulative damage, particularly in high-stress areas such as the suspension and wheel assemblies. Given the severity of the recent MOT failures, it is plausible that the vehicle has been subjected to excessive load or improper maintenance, leading to premature failure of critical components like the coil spring and wheel fixings. Given the concerning MOT history, the prospective buyer must conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection to assess the extent of the mechanical issues and plan for necessary repairs. Focus on the suspension system, particularly the near-side front coil spring, which failed catastrophically in 2025. Visually inspect for signs of further coil spring degradation, such as rust, cracks, or sagging, and listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, which may indicate additional suspension bush or arm wear. The missing wheel fixings on multiple sides warrant immediate attention, as they compromise structural integrity and safety. Test the vehicle’s handling by performing a firm acceleration and braking test to check for binding calipers, uneven tyre wear, or excessive play in the steering or suspension, which could indicate further wheel bearing or track rod end issues. Additionally, verify that all lights—including the horn, position lamps, and stop lamps—are functional, as recurring electrical faults suggest a failing wiring harness or fuse box that may require professional diagnosis. For the buyer, the presence of worn tyres—particularly those nearing legal limits—should be addressed promptly, as underinflation or excessive wear can exacerbate suspension and braking issues. The near-side and offside rear tyres were flagged as worn in multiple MOTs, so check for uneven tread wear patterns, which may indicate alignment or camber issues. Given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. The driver’s airbag inoperative and the warning lamp indicating a fault suggest that the vehicle’s restraint system may require professional servicing, as the airbag deployment mechanism could be compromised. Finally, while the electrical faults—such as the non-working horn and position lamps—may seem minor, they are recurring issues that could stem from a failing 12V battery, a faulty alternator, or a deteriorating fuse box. A comprehensive electrical system check, including battery voltage and fluid levels, is essential to prevent further failures. Given the vehicle’s history, the buyer should budget for significant repairs, particularly to the suspension and wheel assembly, and consider whether the cost of rectifying these issues aligns with the vehicle’s intended use and value.