2010 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · DF10 EAP

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Nissan Note, conducted on 2026-06-26, resulted in a clean pass with only one advisory—an offside rear wheel bearing exhibiting slight noise—which is a recurring issue noted in previous tests. The overall maintenance history over the past five years shows a pattern of persistent but manageable advisories rather than a clear trend of worsening mechanical condition. While the vehicle has passed each MOT, the presence of multiple recurring advisories—particularly around wheel bearings, suspension components, and tyre wear—suggests that while the car remains roadworthy, some components are approaching or exceeding their expected service life. The failure in 2021 highlighted a major issue with the offside rear wheel bearing, which was rough when rotated, indicating significant wear that required immediate attention. This underscores the importance of addressing these recurring problems promptly to prevent further deterioration or potential failure. The recorded mileage of 72,546 miles for a vehicle aged 16 years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 4,534 miles per year, which is far below the typical wear-and-tear expectations for a car of this vintage. Such low mileage could imply either light usage, long periods of inactivity, or potentially poor maintenance practices that have allowed wear to accumulate without significant mechanical stress. However, the combination of low mileage and the presence of multiple advisories—particularly in suspension and wheel bearings—raises concerns about how the vehicle has been maintained. Low-mileage cars that have stood for extended periods are particularly susceptible to issues such as standing corrosion on brake discs and calipers, fluid degradation from stagnation, and wear in components that are not actively engaged. The lack of service history stamps or fluid checks within the expected service intervals further complicates the assessment, as these are critical for preventing long-term damage. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the suspension and wheel bearings, given the recurring advisories. Focus on the offside rear wheel bearing, which has been flagged as noisy and rough in prior MOTs; listen for a persistent grinding or whining noise when the wheel is rotated manually or during cornering. Similarly, examine the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and suspension arm bushes for excessive play or signs of wear, such as clunking noises when the vehicle is driven over bumps or uneven surfaces. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, pitting, or binding, particularly on the near- and offside fronts, as the 2021 MOT failure indicated compromised braking performance. Check for oil leaks around the wheel bearings and suspension components, ensuring no additional fluid is seeping from these areas, which could indicate further deterioration. In addition to mechanical checks, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, given the repeated advisories about wear and damage. The near-side rear tyre shows signs of cracking or perishing, while the near-side front tyre is worn close to the legal limit, suggesting uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment or camber issues. Verify tyre tread depth and look for signs of sidewall damage or dry rot, which can compromise safety. The registration plate deterioration is a minor but persistent issue, but it does not affect roadworthiness and can be easily replaced. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, it is also prudent to check the 12V battery health, as prolonged inactivity can lead to corrosion or failure. Test the battery’s voltage when cold and listen for any clicking noises when starting, which could indicate a weak or failing battery. Finally, consider a comprehensive fluid check—particularly engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—since these fluids degrade over time, even with low usage. If the vehicle has not been serviced in the last 12 months, a full fluid top-up and inspection of fluid levels and condition is essential. The buyer should also verify the service book for any recorded maintenance, as this can provide insight into the vehicle’s maintenance history and potential areas of concern.