2012 Nissan Note 1.5L Diesel · CF12 FDC

The most recent MOT test on the 2012 Nissan Note was conducted on 2025-11-20, resulting in a passing outcome with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of critical failures related to coil springs, with both the nearside front and offside rear springs failing in separate tests in 2020 and 2025 respectively. While the intervening MOTs between these failures were clean, the presence of two major spring failures within a span of five years indicates a systemic issue with suspension integrity. This suggests either a pre-existing structural weakness in the coil springs or accelerated wear due to suboptimal maintenance or driving conditions. The advisory from 2022 regarding the offside rear tyre’s cracking or perishing further underscores the need for vigilance, as such tyre conditions can compromise road grip and lead to uneven wear or sudden failure if left unaddressed. The recorded mileage of 48,794 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 3,485 miles per year. This is notably lower than the typical annual mileage for a car of this age, which often exceeds 5,000 miles annually in the UK. The low mileage could imply either light or infrequent use, potentially including long periods of the vehicle being stationary. However, standing for extended periods can accelerate wear on critical components such as brakes, suspension bushes, and seals, leading to issues like binding calipers, corrosion on brake discs or hubs, and premature fluid degradation in hydraulic systems. Additionally, prolonged idling or lack of movement can cause tyre sidewall perishing due to oxygen exposure, which is a silent but critical failure mode that compromises tyre integrity over time. Given the history of coil spring failures and the advisory on tyre condition, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system. Visually inspect the coil springs for any signs of further deterioration, such as sagging, bulging, or complete collapse, and listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged control arm mounts. The brake system should also be scrutinised for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, particularly on the nearside front and offside rear, where the vehicle has previously failed. Test the brakes for excessive sponginess or pulsation during braking, which could signal warped discs or worn brake pads. Additionally, check for any fluid leaks around the suspension components, as this may indicate failing seals or hydraulic system issues. If the coil springs are beyond repair, the buyer should be prepared for a significant cost for replacement, as these components are expensive and labour-intensive to install. For practical checks given the vehicle’s age and low mileage profile, the buyer should examine the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with minimal usage due to exposure to oxygen over time. A visual inspection of the tyre sidewalls for dry rot or delamination is essential, as this can lead to sudden blowouts. The 12-volt battery should be tested for voltage output when the engine is off and while driving, as low mileage can sometimes mask battery degradation if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. The brake fluid should be checked for contamination or moisture, which can compromise braking performance, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for a long time. Fluid degradation is a calendar-based concern, and if the last brake fluid service was more than two years ago, it is advisable to replace it, even if mileage is low. Lastly, the vehicle’s service history should be verified for any missing or outdated stamps, as the absence of recorded maintenance can indicate neglect, especially given the history of suspension-related failures.