2015 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · EU15 RFZ

The most recent DVSA test on 2025-10-24 resulted in a pass, but it was achieved only after a prior failed attempt on the same date addressing several defects. The failure items included a front windscreen wiper failing to clear the screen effectively, a serious fluid leak from the offside front shock absorber, and a loose central rear registration plate lamp. The advisory for a front oil leak has now been recorded across consecutive tests in 2023 and 2025, indicating a persistent minor seepage that warrants monitoring. The maintenance trend is broadly stable but shows clear signs of component ageing, with suspension wear and minor fluid leaks being recurring themes rather than isolated incidents. With 74,903 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, this Micra averages around 6,800 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and segment. The mileage progression between annual tests appears consistent, suggesting regular but modest use rather than long periods of standing or excessive motorway accumulation. This level of usage generally allows consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and service items to be replaced at sensible intervals, though the lower annual figure means some calendar-based degradation of fluids, rubber components, and underbody protection should be expected alongside mechanical wear. Given the recurring oil leak advisory, a prospective buyer should inspect the engine bay and undertray for signs of fresh oil residue, particularly around the cam cover gasket, sump, and front crankshaft seal. On a test drive, listen for any change in engine note from a slightly reduced oil level and verify that the oil warning light extinguishes promptly. The offside front shock absorber fluid leak recorded in 2025 is a significant wear item; during a road test, listen for clonking or knocking over bumps, observe for uneven tyre wear on the front axle which can result from a weakened damper, and check for excessive nose-diving under braking. The nearside rear brake binding advisory from 2023 also merits attention by checking for heat emanating from that wheel after driving, uneven rear tyre wear, and any pulling to one side under light braking. Beyond the recorded defects, general age-related checks remain prudent. With an eleven-year-old vehicle, inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for perishing and cracking regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades with time. Examine the brake discs for severe corrosion or lipping, test the 12V battery under load for cranking strength, and verify the service history for timely coolant and brake fluid changes which are time-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive. Check the underside for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, and confirm that the exhaust system is secure with no blowing joints, as these are common failure points on older Micras of this generation.