2004 Nissan Almera 1.5L Petrol · DY54 SWJ

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile, though the record shows a transition toward minor exhaust-related issues. The most recent test in August 2023 at 125,094 miles resulted in a pass despite noting defective headlamp lenses and a minor exhaust leak at the central box. This follows a significant failure in August 2022 due to an engine management indicator light being inoperative, suggesting that the previous owner addressed critical electronic faults only when necessary to pass the test test. The mileage pattern is notably low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,700 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-interval usage between 2019 and 2023, with the car covering only 2,739 miles over that four-year period. This low mileage suggests light use, which typically reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine, though it can often lead to the degradation of rubber components, such as suspension bushes and brake seals, if the vehicle sits stationary for long periods between tests. A buyer should focus their physical inspection on the exhaust system, as minor leaks were flagged in both 2019 and 2023. The recurring nature of this fault suggests the exhaust manifold or piping may be thinning or suffering from corrosion. Additionally, the 2019 report of a binding front brake necessitates a check of the nearside caliper and sliding pins to ensure the mechanism has not seized. Given the age of the Almera, a thorough check for structural corrosion on the sills and wing arches is also essential.