2013 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · FN13 RBV

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-05 resulted in a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has now passed inspection without any recorded defects following its previous failures in 2023 and 2022. However, the overall maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in suspension components, brakes, and tyres, which suggest that the vehicle has experienced significant wear over its operational life. While the 2025 test showed only advisories—brake disc wear that did not meet the excessive threshold—this indicates persistent but not yet critical degradation in these systems. The fact that the vehicle failed multiple MOTs due to worn suspension ball joints, coil spring fractures, and wheel bearing roughness underscores the need for proactive maintenance to prevent further mechanical failure or safety hazards. The recorded mileage of 112,584 miles for a 2013 Nissan Note represents an average annual usage of approximately 8,660 miles, which is relatively moderate for its age but aligns with typical long-term ownership patterns. The absence of extreme mileage spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity does not suggest excessive abuse, but the consistent wear observed in the MOT history implies that the vehicle has undergone substantial mechanical stress over time. Given the age and mileage, the suspension components, in particular, have likely experienced accelerated wear due to repeated loading cycles, which is why fractures in coil springs and excessive wear in ball joints were flagged. The rear wheel bearing failure in 2022 further highlights the importance of addressing these issues promptly to avoid premature bearing failure or wheel detachment. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate concerns stem from the documented suspension defects, including the fractured coil springs and worn ball joints. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, as this could indicate further ball joint or arm wear. Inspect the front suspension for excessive play or binding, particularly around the strut mounts and anti-roll bar connections, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment. The rear wheel bearing failure from 2022 should be addressed urgently, as a failing bearing can lead to wheel wobbling, reduced handling stability, and eventual catastrophic failure. Additionally, the brake discs show near-excessive wear but not yet to the point of failure, so monitoring their thickness and checking for glazing or uneven wear during braking is essential. If the buyer proceeds, a thorough suspension and wheel bearing inspection by a qualified mechanic is mandatory before purchase, with replacement of the coil springs and ball joints prioritised. Beyond the immediate mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a comprehensive physical inspection to identify any hidden issues. Given the 13-year age and moderate mileage, the tyres should be checked for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety. The rear tyres, in particular, have been flagged as worn close to the legal limit in previous MOTs, so replacing them if they are below the 1.0mm legal minimum is strongly advised. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as older vehicles are more prone to electrical system failures due to corrosion in terminals or degraded battery chemistry. Fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid—should be checked for contamination or degradation, as standing fluids can corrode internal components over time. Finally, the service history should be verified, especially for the suspension and braking systems, to ensure that all required maintenance was completed. If the service book is incomplete, a full diagnostic check of the drivetrain, exhaust system, and electrical components is recommended to avoid costly repairs later.