2014 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · EU14 WBZ

Recurring issues with suspension component wear and headlight lens degradation define the mechanical profile of this Nissan Micra, with the most recent test on 10 July 2026 showing a pass but noting continued corrosion on both rear coil springs. The vehicle has demonstrated a pattern of escalating defects, specifically moving from minor advisories regarding suspension bushes in 2022 and 2023 to a significant failure in July 2025, where both front suspension arm bushes were recorded as excessively worn and detaching from the arms. While the 2025 failure also included major defects regarding defective headlamp lenses, the subsequent 2026 result indicates these lighting issues have been addressed, though the structural integrity of the rear coil springs remains a persistent advisory. The recorded mileage of 44,412 miles over approximately twelve years represents a low annual usage rate of roughly 3,701 miles. While this lower mileage typically implies less cumulative wear on drivetrain components, the MOT history reveals that certain rubber and metal components are showing age-related deterioration consistent with infrequent use or long periods of stationary operation. This is evidenced by the repeated advisories for perishing tyres in 2022 and the progressive degradation of the suspension bushes and headlight lens clarity, which can occur as materials age and succumb to environmental exposure regardless of distance travelled. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle during a test drive to ensure the previously failed suspension arm bushes have been adequately replaced and are not currently causing instability. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or uneven thudding sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these are common symptoms of worn suspension linkages or bushings. Additionally, because the rear coil springs have been flagged for corrosion for at least two consecutive years, it is necessary to inspect the physical condition of the springs for significant surface scale or structural thinning that could lead to sudden failure. The history of headlight lens defects, which progressed from minor issues to major failures, necessitates a thorough check of the lighting clarity and beam pattern. Ensure there is no cloudiness or oxidation on the lenses that could impair night-time visibility, and verify that all dipped and main beam functions operate correctly. Finally, given the previous failures regarding windscreen wiper effectiveness and loose bumper components, a physical inspection of the wiper motor operation and the security of the front bumper assembly should be conducted to confirm these items have been rectified to a standard that prevents further recurrence.