2004 Nissan Almera 1.8L Petrol · DY04 RYH

A pattern of recurring tyre-related failures and lighting defects defines the recent mechanical history of this Nissan Almera, culminating in a pass on 27 April 2026 following a failure for non-functional headlamps and stop lamps. The testing trend shows intermittent issues with consumables and electrical components, specifically highlighted by a dangerous failure in April 2025 where both nearside front and offside tyres were recorded with exposed ply or cords. While the most recent test cleared the vehicle of these immediate safety risks, the continued presence of advisories regarding nearside front tyre wear on the inner edge suggests a persistent issue with wheel alignment or suspension geometry that has not been fully rectified. The vehicle has covered 68,705 miles over its 22-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 3,123 miles. This low annual mileage is significantly below the UK average and indicates a usage pattern that may involve long periods of inactivity or very short, infrequent journeys. Mechanically, such low usage can lead to uneven tyre wear due to infrequent alignment corrections and may contribute to the pitting and scoring observed on the rear brake discs in 2024. It also means that while drivetrain components may have low absolute wear, the vehicle has not been subjected to the regular thermal cycling and mechanical movement that helps prevent the seizure of components like brake calipers or suspension bushes. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and suspension during a test drive to address the recurring inner-edge tyre wear noted in the April 2026 advisory. Listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel, as these can indicate worn suspension bushes, ball joints, or tie rod ends. Additionally, check for any pulling to one side during straight-line driving, which would confirm an alignment issue. The history of brake pad and disc issues, including a dangerous failure for thin pads in 2024 and pitted discs, necessitates a thorough inspection of the braking system. During the test drive, the braking performance must be evaluated for any pedal judder, which could indicate warped discs, or a spongy pedal feel that might suggest air in the system or worn components. Given the previous failures regarding stop lamps and headlamps, a secondary check of all exterior lighting, including indicators and reversing lights, is essential to ensure electrical connections are secure. Finally, verify that the windscreen wipers operate smoothly and clear the glass without streaking, as the effectiveness of the wipers was previously flagged as a major defect.