2010 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · BD10 PFA

Recurring advisories regarding the exhaust system and suspension components define the recent mechanical profile of this Nissan Micra, indicating a trend of developing wear in the chassis and emissions components. While the vehicle passed its most recent test on 08 November 2025, the inspection highlighted a minor exhaust gas leak and worn front suspension arm pins or bushes, both of which were also noted as advisories during a failure on the same date. This pattern of advisories, alongside a previous failure in November 2024 involving an insecure headlamp and a compromised anti-roll bar dust cover, suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase where multiple peripheral components require attention to maintain roadworthiness. The recorded mileage of 140,109 miles over approximately sixteen years equates to an average annual usage of roughly 8,757 miles. This represents a typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age, suggesting consistent rather than sporadic operation. Mechanically, this level of mileage implies that while the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme high-speed motorway transit, it has accumulated sufficient distance to necessitate the replacement of wear-and-tear items such as suspension bushes, lighting assemblies, and exhaust sections, as evidenced by the recent MOT history. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the chassis and suspension during a test drive to address the flagged suspension arm pin or bush wear. Listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, and feel for any wandering or imprecise steering that might indicate excessive movement in the front suspension linkages. The advisory regarding the minor exhaust leak should also be investigated; listen for any increased engine noise or a rasping sound from underneath the car, particularly during acceleration, which could indicate the leak is progressing. The history of lighting failures, including an insecure headlamp and an inoperative registration plate lamp, necessitates a thorough visual check of all external illumination. Ensure the headlamp aim is correctly adjusted and that the beam pattern is stable, as previous tests identified incorrect projection. Additionally, the advisory concerning a worn parking brake lever suggests the handbrake mechanism may feel loose or lack sufficient tension when engaged. Verify that the vehicle holds firmly on an incline and that the lever does not require excessive travel to secure the vehicle.