2002 Nissan Primera 1.8L Petrol · DF02 OSR

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 19 March 2026, but the preceding history indicates a deteriorating maintenance trend. The car suffered two failures in quick succession during March 2026, requiring the rectification of significant faults including a leaking power steering ram, worn anti-roll bar components, and excessive exhaust emissions. While these were addressed to achieve a pass, the sudden emergence of multiple major defects suggests a period of deferred maintenance or accelerated wear of critical components. With a recorded mileage of 142,574 miles over a twenty-four year lifespan, the vehicle has averaged approximately 5,941 miles per year. This is considerably lower than the national average for a car of this vintage, which often implies the vehicle has spent significant periods stationary or has been used for short, low-intensity journeys. While low mileage generally reduces drivetrain wear, it can introduce specific risks such as the perishing of rubber seals and the degradation of fluids regardless of distance travelled. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the steering and suspension systems during a test drive. Given the recent failure of the power steering ram and the anti-roll bar bush, listen for knocks or clunks when traversing uneven surfaces and check for any heaviness or irregularity in the steering feel. The history of noisy wheel bearings on both the nearside and offside front suggests a pattern of wear in the hub assemblies; listen for a rhythmic humming or droning sound that changes pitch when steering into corners. Furthermore, the previous exhaust emission failures indicate potential issues with the fuel system or catalytic converter, so ensure the engine idles smoothly and accelerates without hesitation. Immediate attention should be given to the braking system, as the latest MOT recorded thin brake pads on both rear wheels. These will require imminent replacement to avoid scoring the brake discs. Due to the low annual usage, inspect all tyre sidewalls for hairline cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades over time even if the tread remains legal. Verify the service history to ensure that engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage. Finally, inspect the underside for corrosion, specifically around the fuel pipes as previously noted in 2024, to ensure structural integrity has not been compromised by standing moisture.