2012 Nissan Juke 1.6L Petrol · CH54 ARL

The latest MOT test for the 2012 Nissan Juke on 2025-10-28 resulted in a passing grade, though it included two persistent advisories: near-side front suspension arm pin or bush wear not severe enough to cause excessive movement, and corrosion of the offside rear coil spring, which has been noted in both the 2024-11-01 and 2024-10-25 tests. While this record shows no outright failures in the past year, the vehicle’s history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the suspension, brakes, and exhaust systems, with a notable failure in 2024-10-25 highlighting critical deficiencies such as severely worn rear brake pads and an exhaust leak that compromised emissions compliance. The progression of these advisories and major faults suggests that while the vehicle may currently pass roadworthiness tests, it has not been fully maintained to industry standards, and the wear observed—particularly in the suspension and braking components—indicates that further deterioration could occur without proactive servicing. The recorded mileage of 60,747 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 4,339 miles per year, which is significantly below the expected wear rate for a car of this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged standing, which can accelerate corrosion in static components like coil springs, brake systems, and suspension linkages due to moisture ingress and oxidation. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to rigorous daily driving conditions, but this also means that consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and fluids may have degraded over time without regular replacement or servicing. The 2024-10-25 MOT failure, particularly the dangerous condition of rear brake pads below the legal minimum thickness, underscores the importance of addressing wear in static or lightly used vehicles, as standing can exacerbate corrosion and binding in components like brake discs and calipers. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the suspension components for signs of further wear or corrosion beyond the advisories noted. The near-side front suspension arm pin or bush and the offside rear coil spring show signs of degradation; during a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when cornering or over bumps, which may indicate loose or worn bushings. Inspect the rear suspension for any additional play or binding, and verify that the coil springs are fully functional and not sagging or damaged. The brake system, particularly the rear pads and discs, must be inspected for even wear and signs of glazing or corrosion, as the 2024-10-25 failure highlighted a critical condition that could recur. Test the brakes for performance—apply the pedal firmly and check for sponginess, vibration, or a pulling sensation, which could indicate worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Additionally, verify that all brake lights function correctly, as the 2023-04-12 MOT noted a non-working offside stop lamp, which is a safety hazard and should be rectified immediately. For fluid systems, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should consider checking the condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid for signs of degradation or contamination. Brake fluid should be fresh and free from moisture, as standing fluid can absorb water and reduce braking efficiency. The coolant should be clear and not show signs of sludge or corrosion inhibitors breaking down, which can lead to overheating or pipe failure. The transmission fluid should be checked for colour and viscosity; if it appears dark or has lost its sheen, it may need replacement. A comprehensive inspection of the exhaust system is also essential, as the recurring minor leaks and emissions issues suggest potential corrosion or joint failure. Listen for unusual noises such as hissing or whining during acceleration, which may indicate a leak or failing catalytic converter, and visually inspect the exhaust for signs of rust or damage. Finally, the tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing, which is more likely in a low-mileage vehicle due to prolonged exposure to environmental elements. Check for cracks or separation in the rubber, and ensure the tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm, as the 2023-12 MOT noted slight cracking in the near-side rear tyre, which could compromise grip and handling. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp or extreme climate, consider a thorough inspection of the undercarriage for rust or corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and underbody components.