2009 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · BN09 DLD

The 2009 Nissan Note presents a pattern of repeated testing challenges across its three-year MOT history, beginning with a failed assessment in September 2024 that identified serious structural and component failures alongside persistent issues. That initial failure listed a missing front anti-roll bar linkage, critically worn front suspension ball joints, severe subframe corrosion, and oil misting from rear shock absorbers. Subsequent tests showed the underlying problems were not fully resolved, as the 2025-09-17 assessment, while passing, retained the same advisory flags—including continued front brake disc deterioration, ongoing subframe corrosion, and rear shock oil leakage—before adding additional concerns such as front suspension arm ball joint wear. The fact that the vehicle cleared its most recent test despite carrying multiple active advisories indicates the issues were managed through repeated inspections rather than corrected through physical intervention, leaving the core mechanical risks intact. With 162,099 recorded miles on a 2009 model, the vehicle accumulates approximately 9,535 miles per year, which aligns reasonably with its age and does not suggest anomalously high or unusually low usage patterns. However, the absence of intermediate MOT records between the 2024 and 2025 assessments raises questions about regular service intervals and whether the vehicle experienced extended periods of storage or infrequent driving between tests. The consistent presence of front subframe corrosion across two separate test cycles points to a chronic structural weakness that would eventually compromise chassis integrity regardless of mileage alone. While the annual rate of fuel consumption appears within expected parameters for the model, the combination of recurring wear items and the lack of documented corrective actions means the vehicle's mechanical health remains precarious even as it ages. The front subframe corrosion represents the most concerning structural defect, as compromised subframes can lead to progressive bodywork distortion and increased wheel hop during suspension travel. A thorough visual inspection should focus on the lower control arms and mounting points where rust penetration may have progressed beyond cosmetic damage. The nearside front suspension arm ball joints show progressive wear evidenced by the 2025 advisory, and together with the other front suspension component ball joint failure noted in 2024, this indicates a systemic suspension issue likely caused by fatigue from repeated loading cycles. During a test drive, listen for distinct knocks over bumps and feel for abnormal movement when turning, particularly noting whether the front wheels remain properly aligned and responsive throughout the maneuver. The front brake discs are consistently reported as worn, pitted, or scored across both 2024 and 2025 assessments, representing a critical safety deficiency that requires immediate attention. When evaluating the vehicle on the road, monitor the brake pedal for any vibration or pulsation during deceleration, especially at highway speeds, and check for grinding noises that would signal excessive pad material loss or rotor damage. Additionally, the severely deteriorated outer drive shaft constant velocity boots (listed in both 2024 and 2025 tests) expose the driveshaft assembly to moisture and debris, which can accelerate bearing wear and cause transmission input shaft noise or roughness. These boots should be examined for wet or greasy residue and the associated plays in the driveshaft rotation should be tested by hand-turning the shaft while the vehicle is stationary. Given the combined status of these systems, the vehicle should only proceed to purchase after confirming that the subframe repair is complete, the front suspension bearings have been replaced, and the brake discs and drive shaft seals are in good working order.