2016 Nissan Note 1.5L Diesel · DF16 XMU

The most recent MOT inspection on 6 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance profile shows a concerning trend of worsening advisories. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record since 2019, the last two consecutive tests have flagged recurring issues regarding suspension components and tyre condition. Specifically, the transition from no defects in 2022 to multiple advisories in 2025 and 2026 suggests that wear-and-tear components are reaching the end of their serviceable life. The presence of repeated advisories for suspension bushes and tyre degradation indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where significant preventative maintenance will soon be required to avoid outright failure. The recorded mileage of 23,242 miles for a 2016 model is exceptionally low, averaging approximately 2,324 miles per year. While low mileage often implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it frequently indicates a vehicle that has spent significant periods stationary or has been used only for very short, infrequent trips. In this specific case, the low usage pattern is likely the primary cause of the recorded defects. Vehicles that sit idle for long periods are prone to rubber component degradation, such as the perishing tyres and worn suspension bushes noted in the MOT history, as well as potential issues with fluid breakdown and seal drying. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the suspension and tyre health during a test drive. The advisories regarding the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm bushes suggest that the rubber is losing its structural integrity. On the road, this may manifest as knocking or clunking sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and potentially imprecise steering or a vague sensation through the steering wheel. Furthermore, the repeated advisories for cracking and perishing on the offside front tyre indicate that the rubber is aging and losing its elasticity. You should inspect the tyre sidewalls closely for any deep cracks or bulges and check for uneven tread wear, which could indicate that the suspension wear is already affecting wheel alignment. Given the low annual mileage, you should also conduct a thorough physical inspection of components that suffer from age-related degradation rather than mileage-related wear. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the car has been standing, and ensure the calipers are not binding. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of terminal corrosion and ask for evidence of recent replacement, as batteries in low-use vehicles often fail due to lack of regular charging cycles. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that oil and coolant changes have been performed based on the calendar year rather than just mileage, as time-based fluid degradation is a significant risk for vehicles with such low usage profiles.