2013 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · CU63 XJM

The most recent DVSA examination recorded on 14 October 2025 produced both a pass and a fail on the same date, with the vehicle subsequently passing after rectification of the major failure item. The principal reason for the failed entry was an excessively worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joint on both the nearside and offside front, a defect that had been progressively worsening over the previous three tests. In 2021 both front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints were noted with slight play, and the same observation was repeated in August 2024, culminating in the components reaching an excessively worn state by October 2025. Although the vehicle currently satisfies MOT requirements, this pattern represents a deteriorating rather than stable condition in the front suspension. The minor items recorded alongside the recent test, namely a damaged windscreen not affecting the driver's view and a slightly loose nearside obligatory mirror, are non-structural concerns that should nevertheless be rectified for general road safety compliance. The recorded mileage of 115,697 miles on a thirteen year old vehicle equates to an average annual usage of approximately 8,900 miles, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and segment. There are no conspicuous gaps in the MOT timeline, with annual tests consistently submitted since at least 2020, indicating regular use and a likely programme of routine maintenance. However, the cumulative mileage is approaching a level where major mechanical components such as the clutch, timing chain, and exhaust system may be approaching the threshold for renewed attention on a petrol powered Nissan Micra of this generation. The continuous annual usage does reduce the risk of calendar based deterioration in items prone to seizing or seizing from prolonged standing, such as brake calipers and exhaust mounting rubbers, although the advisories show that corrosion related wear is already established. The most significant recurring defect concerns the front anti-roll bar linkage, where slight play progressed to excessive wear within a four year period. A prospective buyer should physically inspect both front anti-roll bar drop links and their ball joints for perished or split dust boots, play when the wheels are rocked by hand, and any clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension when driving over speed humps or uneven road surfaces. The persistent advisories regarding corrosion of the nearside and offside rear coil springs should also be carefully inspected, as corroded springs can eventually fracture and cause a sudden loss of vehicle height. On a test drive, listen for any metallic rattle from the rear suspension, particularly over rough surfaces, and visually check the springs for heavy surface oxidation or any signs of cracking between the coils. The rear axle beam sub-frame has also been noted as corroded on more than one occasion, so a thorough underbody inspection using a ramp or torch is recommended to ascertain the structural integrity, ensuring no significant weakness has developed. Beyond the recurring suspension concerns, attention should be given to the braking components, as the front discs have been flagged as worn and pitted and the front pads as wearing thin across multiple tests, suggesting that renewed discs and pads may now be due. The offside rear shock absorber has shown light oil misting and external casing damage since at least 2022, which warrants visual inspection for any worsening fluid leak and confirmation that the unit is not binding or producing an uneven ride height. Given the vehicle's thirteen year age, irrespective of mileage, the buyer should also verify the condition and age of the 12V battery, examine all tyres for sidewall perishing and cracking typical of age related rubber degradation, and confirm the service history demonstrates recent replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil at the calendar intervals recommended by the manufacturer. A final road test should confirm smooth clutch operation, absence of warning lights on the dashboard, and steady idle behaviour, as these are common indicators of underlying mechanical condition on higher mileage examples of the Nissan Micra.