2005 Nissan Primera 2.0L Petrol · FN05 SXG

The vehicle exhibits a deteriorating structural issue in the rear suspension mounting points, which has escalated from advisory status in 2022 to major failure classifications in the most recent test on 20 April 2026. This corrosion affects both the nearside and offside inner sills adjacent to the axle beams, significantly reducing structural strength. Furthermore, the car has a history of suspension component wear, including front lower suspension arm bushes and track rod end dust cover insecurity, alongside a deployed central rear seat belt pretensioner recorded in both 2022 and 2020. With a recorded mileage of 124,222 miles over approximately 21 years, the annual accumulation rate of roughly 5,915 miles suggests light usage or extended periods of inactivity. Despite the low annual mileage, the vehicle has experienced significant mechanical stress, evidenced by the 2020 failure where the exhaust was broken and the 2022 failure involving front lower suspension arm wear. The three-year gap between the 2023 MOT and the current 2026 test, combined with the recent major failures in the rear suspension mounting areas, indicates a vehicle that may have been off the road or subject to limited use, potentially allowing corrosion to accelerate in the absence of regular driving. Prospective buyers must inspect the rear inner sills adjacent to the rear axle beams for significant corrosion, as this is a major structural concern flagged in the latest test. Visually, look for rust penetrating the metal, particularly where the suspension mounts to the chassis. On the front, listen for clunking noises over bumps, which would indicate worn front lower suspension arm bushes or play in the anti-roll bar linkage ball joints. Check the steering for excessive play or wandering behavior, which could result from the insecure track rod end dust cover recorded in 2023. Additionally, inspect the nearside rear brake hose for any signs of cracking or damage, as a slightly damaged hose was noted in 2022. Ensure the supplementary restraint system warning lamp illuminates on the dashboard during the ignition cycle, as a failure to light was noted in 2023. Inspect the central rear seat belt for fraying or damage, specifically the nearside rear seat belt, which was flagged in the same test. Check that the parking brake holds the vehicle securely on a gradient, as the 2026 test highlighted a major failure in parking brake efficiency. Finally, examine the front headlamps for the correct colour and clarity, as incorrect headlamp colour was a major failure in 2023, and listen for any unusual engine noises that might indicate the oil leak observed near the nearside front lower suspension area.