2006 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · FM06 WAE

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 5 September 2023 resulted in a Pass, although the inspection recorded an advisory for a front oil leak deemed not excessive, a minor failure for a severely deteriorated offside front suspension ball joint dust cover, and three further advisories relating to inner edge tyre wear on the offside front, nearside front suspension arm rear bush wear, and a small amount of play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint. Reviewing the prior year, the vehicle failed its August 2022 test on major defects concerning the offside front upper anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover and a split offside front outer constant velocity joint boot, before being re-submitted on the same date and passing with advisories for corroded rear coil springs both sides and the previously noted front oil leak. The recurrence of the oil leak advisory across consecutive tests is a clear maintenance concern, as it suggests an ongoing seal or gasket issue that has not been rectified and is likely to worsen with continued use. The escalating pattern from a major defect failure in 2022 to a pass with multiple advisories in 2023 indicates that whilst the vehicle is being kept broadly roadworthy, several underlying wear items remain unaddressed and require attention before further deterioration compromises safety or test status. With 117,657 miles recorded over approximately twenty years, this Nissan Micra has covered an annual average of around 5,883 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of its age and indicates either extended periods of light use or significant standing time between journeys. Whilst low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox internals, it brings its own set of age-related concerns including corrosion of exposed metal components, drying and perishing of rubber and plastic elements, and degradation of fluids over calendar years rather than through active use. Given the advisory history, a prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. The deteriorated offside front ball joint dust cover noted as a minor defect in 2023 will allow moisture and dirt ingress, accelerating wear of the joint itself; on a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking from the front end particularly over speed bumps, uneven surfaces, and during full lock steering manoeuvres. The advisories for the nearside front suspension arm rear bush and steering rack inner joint play suggest progressing wear that should be monitored, and any worsening of vague steering response, clonks, or uneven front tyre wear during your inspection would indicate these items now require replacement. The ongoing front oil leak should be physically inspected underneath the vehicle for fresh residue on the sump, oil filter housing, or cam cover area, and the oil level verified on the dipstick to ensure the engine is not being run with a depleted supply. The offside front CV boot that split in 2022 will have been replaced for the subsequent pass, but it warrants a thorough visual inspection for any fresh splits or grease loss, and listen for any clicking or rumbling from the front wheels during sharp turns which would indicate compromised CV joint integrity. Beyond the recorded advisories, the low annual mileage and twenty-year age of this vehicle demand a comprehensive age-related inspection. Tyres, even those with adequate tread, may suffer from sidewall perishing and cracking due to prolonged standing or UV exposure, so inspect the sidewalls carefully for any hairline cracks or brittleness, and consider replacement if they are older than five years regardless of remaining tread depth. Inspect the rear coil springs, flagged for corrosion in 2022, as surface corrosion can progress to structural weakening and eventual fracture, particularly on a vehicle of this age. Check for brake disc corrosion and seizing calipers, which commonly develop on low-use vehicles and manifest as a dragging sensation, uneven braking, or excessive handbrake travel. Verify the 12V battery health as batteries rarely last beyond five to seven years and a weak unit may cause starting difficulties. Finally, confirm the service book stamps and review the timing belt replacement history, as the cambelt on this engine is due at fixed intervals regardless of mileage, and any uncertainty over its replacement could result in catastrophic engine damage.