2017 Nissan Navara 2.3L Diesel · DB02 FAT

The defining mechanical event in this Navara's recent history is a fractured front coil spring recorded as a major failure on 15 December 2025, with the vehicle subsequently passing an MOT on 23 December 2025 with no defects recorded, indicating the springs were replaced before retest. Aside from this single significant component failure, the test record is notably clean, with passes in 2023 and 2024 free of structural or mechanical concerns. The two advisories from December 2024 concerned nearside and offside rear tyres worn close to the legal limit, both 255/60R18, which is a routine consumable issue rather than a mechanical defect. Overall, the trend points to a vehicle that is structurally sound and has passed subsequent scrutiny without repeat issues, though the sudden coil spring failure is a point worth scrutinising in context. With 61,598 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Navara has covered around 6,844 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a working pickup of this age and suggests a mixture of urban, commuting, and possibly light commercial use rather than prolonged standing or excessive high-mileage motorway work. There are no extended gaps in the testing history that would indicate the vehicle was laid up for multiple years, and the relatively even accumulation of mileage reduces the risk of component degradation associated with long periods of immobility, such as seized brakes, perished rubber, or flat-spotted tyres. Mechanically, this usage profile is generally favourable for the drivetrain and suspension, as regular running keeps seals lubricated and prevents the deterioration that affects low-mileage or stored vehicles, though the components most exposed to road conditions in a pickup of this type, namely suspension, steering, and underbody protection, should still be the focus of any inspection. Given the recorded front coil spring failure, particular attention should be paid to the replacement units and surrounding suspension geometry, as coil springs on dual-purpose pickups can fail prematurely if the originals were subjected to heavy loads, off-road use, or corrosion. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly at low speed, and feel for any vagueness or wandering in the steering that could indicate worn top mounts, drop links, or compromised spring seats. Visually inspect the springs themselves for any signs of corrosion, paint marking, or mismatched components, as aftermarket replacements of differing quality can lead to uneven ride height or altered handling. The rear suspension, which on the Navara typically consists of a multi-leaf or coil arrangement depending on specification, should also be examined for sagging, cracked leaves, or worn bushes, as these are common wear items on working pickups carrying payload. The tyre wear pattern recorded in late 2024, with both rear tyres worn on the edge, may suggest either an alignment issue, particularly rear axle geometry or camber, or routine wear from a heavily laden rear end. During inspection, verify that a recent wheel alignment has been carried out and that the replacement tyres are wearing evenly across the tread, as uneven edge wear on a rear-wheel-drive pickup can point to worn suspension bushes, a bent axle, or simply the vehicle being driven with consistently heavy rear loads. Additionally, check the condition of the rear brake components, as pickups used for towing or load carrying often exhibit accelerated pad and disc wear. A thorough underbody inspection is also advisable to confirm the absence of corrosion on the subframe, brake lines, and chassis rails, areas not visible during a standard MOT but critical to long-term roadworthiness.