2015 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · DN65 MLF

The 2015 Nissan Micra’s most recent MOT test on 2026-08-05 resulted in a clean pass with no defects, marking a positive deviation from the previous two years’ advisories and a single failure. Over the past six years, the vehicle’s MOT history demonstrates a pattern of recurring but manageable issues rather than a deterioration in overall roadworthiness. The front suspension arm bushings exhibited wear in 2025, prompting advisories that indicated mild but persistent movement—suggesting gradual degradation that could worsen with continued use. Meanwhile, front tyre wear approaching legal limits in 2021 and 2024, alongside thin brake pads, highlighted consumable wear that aligns with typical usage patterns for this age and mileage. The 2022 failure related to non-functional lamps was isolated and easily rectifiable, and the absence of such issues in the last two MOTs suggests these problems have been addressed. While the vehicle’s maintenance trend is not entirely stable, it is consistent with the expected wear progression of a 11-year-old car with moderate mileage, and the latest test confirms it is currently roadworthy. The recorded mileage of 58,892 miles for a 2015 Micra—approximately 5,354 miles per year—is notably low for its age, which typically suggests either light usage, long periods of inactivity, or both. Such low mileage can mask wear on certain components, particularly those affected by standing, such as brake systems, suspension, and fluids, which degrade more slowly when stationary. However, the advisories from 2021 and 2024 regarding front tyre wear on the edges and thin brake pads suggest that even with lower mileage, consumables like tyres and brake components can still reach critical thresholds if not serviced regularly. The suspension advisories from 2025 indicate that the lower arms’ bushings have worn to a point where excessive movement is possible, which could lead to further damage to the control arms, coil springs, or struts if not addressed promptly. The 2022 failure of the headlamp and position lamps, while minor, underscores the importance of checking all lighting systems, as they are critical for visibility and compliance. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination of this vehicle are the suspension, brakes, and tyres, given the recurring advisories and their implications. Focus on the front suspension arms and their bushings, particularly the lower arms, as the wear history suggests they may require replacement soon to prevent further movement-induced damage to the vehicle’s structural integrity or alignment. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate loose suspension components or worn bushings, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the front tyres, which may reveal misalignment or steering issues. Inspect the brake system thoroughly, including the front discs for corrosion or binding, the calipers for proper operation, and the brake pads for sufficient thickness. If the calipers appear stuck or the discs show signs of warping, this could lead to uneven braking performance or failure. In addition to the mechanical checks, the buyer should address the broader roadworthiness and longevity of the vehicle through practical inspections and maintenance planning. Given the low mileage and potential periods of inactivity, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity over time, even with low mileage. Check the battery for signs of corrosion around the terminals and ensure it holds a charge, as a failing battery can lead to electrical system failures or even a total failure if left unaddressed. Inspect the fluid levels, particularly the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, for any signs of degradation or contamination, as fluids can break down over time, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Verify that the service history is up to date, particularly for the timing belt (if applicable), exhaust system, and any scheduled maintenance such as the oil change intervals, which are critical for preventing catastrophic failures. Finally, since the vehicle has been tested recently, a thorough test drive is essential to confirm that the suspension, brakes, and steering systems operate smoothly, and to listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate underlying issues.