2009 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · FE09 RYJ

The mechanical narrative of this 2009 Nissan Note is one of largely consistent roadworthiness supported by eight consecutive MOT passes and no recorded failures, but the test record does carry a steady accumulation of component-specific advisories that any prospective buyer should weigh carefully. The most recent test on 11 July 2026 was recorded as a clean pass with no defects noted, continuing the unbroken run of certifications. When the full history is reviewed chronologically from the 2019 test through to 2026, there is a clear recurring theme around the front suspension and front braking components, with front suspension arm pin or bush wear flagged on both sides in 2024, and front brake disc wear recorded in 2023. None of these items were severe enough to cause a failure, and each was permitted to pass with advisory status, but the pattern indicates progressive wear in areas that are common ageing concerns on a vehicle of this age and is worth noting as a likely area of future remedial work. Recorded mileage stands at 78,603 miles across 17 years, equating to an annual accumulation of roughly 4,624 miles per year. This is a notably low figure for a vehicle of this age, and the MOT record does not reveal any prolonged gaps between tests, with certifications recorded annually between 2019 and 2026. Lower annual mileage typically reduces wear on major drivetrain and engine components, but it does not eliminate the deterioration of rubber items, braking surfaces, and suspension linkages, all of which can degrade over time regardless of how little the vehicle is driven. The absence of multi-year testing gaps suggests the vehicle has remained in active use rather than being laid up for extended periods, which is generally favourable for maintaining seal integrity and preventing the sort of corrosion and moisture-related deterioration that affects long-stored vehicles. Given that both front suspension arm pins or bushes were flagged as worn in 2024 without resulting in excessive movement, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension on a test drive. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for any vagueness or delay in steering response, particularly over uneven surfaces. The worn bushes will have continued to deteriorate over the intervening two years since the advisory was raised, so a thorough inspection on a ramp or with the wheels lifted would be prudent to assess current movement at the joints. Similarly, the 2023 advisory concerning the front brake disc being worn, pitted, or scored warrants close attention; pedal judder under firm braking, any grinding sensation, or pulling to one side when braking could indicate the discs have now reached a serviceable limit. The rear tyre advisories from 2021 and 2022, covering both edge wear on the offside rear and perishing on both rear tyres, are less concerning on a 2009 vehicle because tyres are consumable items expected to be replaced regularly, and the absence of any tyre-related advisories in the 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026 tests suggests replacements have been carried out. A buyer should still inspect the current tyres for age-related cracking in the sidewalls and check for uneven shoulder wear, which can be symptomatic of misalignment or suspension issues that would connect back to the front bush wear previously flagged. Beyond the recorded items, it would be sensible to carry out a thorough visual check of the underbody and subframe for corrosion, as the MOT history does not record any structural advisories but the Note is approaching an age where surface corrosion can begin to develop, particularly in areas exposed to winter road salt. Finally, confirming that the front brake discs have been inspected or replaced since the 2023 advisory, and budgeting for the likely replacement of the front suspension arm pins or bushes, would represent a measured approach to acquiring this otherwise consistently roadworthy vehicle.