2009 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · FN09 HVG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 January 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory that the front brake disc remains worn, pitted or scored, although not yet weakened to the point of failure. Over the last seven years the vehicle has alternated between clean passes and a series of minor advisories, with the only outright failure occurring in early 2022 for a front tyre that was close to the legal limit and two lamp faults. The pattern shows a generally stable MOT outcome but a gradual accumulation of wear‑related advisories, particularly on the front braking system, front suspension dust‑covers and the lower exhaust mounting, indicating that maintenance has been adequate but not proactive in addressing recurring wear items. At 112 387 miles for a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6 600 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious large mileage gaps in the recorded history, suggesting the car has seen regular, moderate use rather than long periods of storage or intense short‑term mileage spikes. This moderate exposure means that major components such as the engine and transmission are likely to have endured normal wear, but consumables – brakes, tyres, suspension bushings and fluid seals – will be approaching the latter stages of their service lives and should be inspected closely. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front braking system. Measure the disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum specification and look for deep scoring or uneven wear that could indicate the need for replacement soon. While the advisory notes the disc is not yet seriously weakened, the recurrence of the same comment over three consecutive years suggests it has not been addressed. Inspect the brake pads for wear and confirm that the calipers move freely without sticking. The anti‑roll bar linkage dust‑covers on both front sides were recorded as severely deteriorated in 2025; these are usually simple rubber or plastic components that, when cracked, allow moisture to reach the ball‑joint bearings, potentially leading to corrosion and play. Check for any looseness or clunking when cornering and verify that the ball joints are well lubricated. The central lower exhaust mounting was flagged as defective – examine the mounting bracket for rust, cracks or broken bolts, and listen for any low‑frequency rattles that could indicate a loose or failing mount. Even if the brake and suspension items are addressed, the car’s age demands a broader set of checks. Verify that all exterior lamps – especially the front position lamp and registration plate lamp that caused the 2022 failure – operate correctly and that the lenses are clear. The front tyre was close to the legal tread limit in several recent tests; confirm that all tyres have sufficient tread depth, no side‑wall cracking, and that the DOT code indicates they are not older than six years, as ageing rubber can fail irrespective of mileage. Inspect the rear subframe mounting area for any progression of corrosion beyond the mild rating noted in 2021. Given the vehicle’s likely extended periods of standing, test the 12 V battery voltage under load and consider a replacement if it is more than five years old. Finally, arrange a fluid service – replace brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil if records are absent, as these fluids degrade with time and can lead to component wear or overheating. A thorough test‑drive should reveal any suspension shudder, steering wander or brake pulsation that would warrant immediate remedial work before purchase.