2012 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · BF12 CLJ

The Nissan Note presents a stable, broadly well-maintained picture on paper, though the most recent MOT test in October 2025 at 76,326 miles flags a recurring structural concern that warrants close attention. The vehicle passed its latest test, but only after a failure on the same day for an offside rear stop lamp, indicating a minor electrical oversight was rectified promptly. The maintenance trend is essentially stable rather than improving, with the same front sub-frame corrosion advisory appearing consistently across multiple tests without evidence of repair or significant deterioration. Suspension and lighting faults have been addressed as they arose, suggesting a reactive rather than preventative maintenance approach, but nothing points to systemic neglect. The mileage pattern is notably low for a 2012 vehicle, averaging roughly 5,452 miles per year over fourteen years. The record shows a gap of over a year between the November 2024 test at 72,804 miles and the October 2025 test at 76,326 miles, representing approximately 3,522 miles of use in that period. Prior to that, annual increments between 2023 and 2024 were around 4,418 miles. The data is clean and continuous with no anomalies or MOT gaps, but the low annual mileage suggests long periods of short-trip use or standing, which can accelerate corrosion in sub-frames, brake components, and exhaust systems due to insufficient heat cycling. The front sub-frame corrosion advisory has appeared in every test from November 2024 onward, initially described as light surface corrosion and later as corroded but not seriously weakened. This is a structural component, not a cosmetic one, and the fact that it has been flagged repeatedly without remedial work means a buyer should have the sub-frame and its mounting points inspected for section loss, particularly around the rear mounting points and where the suspension turrets meet the body. The offside front tyre wear advisories in 2023 and 2024, along with the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play noted in 2024, point to uneven loading or worn suspension geometry. A physical check of the anti-roll bar drop links, lower arm bushes, and tracking alignment would be prudent before purchase. Beyond the documented advisories, the low mileage and age combination means rubber components, including suspension bushes, brake hoses, and exhaust mounts, may have perished from age rather than use. Brake calipers should be checked for seized slides and binding, as vehicles covering fewer miles are prone to corrosion on sliding mechanisms. The exhaust system, particularly the back box and flexible section, deserves inspection for perforation from internal moisture accumulation during short runs. The stop lamp failure in October 2025 was minor, but a full function check of all exterior bulbs and the dashboard for stored bulb-out warnings is advisable. Overall, the record is honest and consistent, but the unresolved sub-frame corrosion advisory is the single most significant item for any buyer to investigate with an underbody inspection before committing.