2014 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · FN64 RFO

The most recent MOT recorded on 23 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but it was accompanied by a series of advisories and a concurrent failure for an ineffective off‑side windscreen wiper. Over the past three years the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in 2024 to repeated advisory notes on tyre perishing, suspension corrosion and brake component wear, and two separate failures in 2023 and 2025 for brake‑pipe corrosion and tyre condition. This pattern indicates a gradual deterioration rather than a stable or improving maintenance trend, with corrosion and wear now becoming recurring concerns that have begun to affect safety‑critical items. At 36,412 mi the Micra averages just over 3,000 mi per year, which is markedly below the typical 8‑10 000 mi for a car of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber, battery plates and metal components even though the mechanical wear from mileage is modest. The limited mileage means that consumables such as tyres, brake pads and fluid seals may be near the end of their service life despite the relatively low odometer reading, and any hidden corrosion could have progressed unchecked during stationary periods. A prospective buyer should give the tyre set a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for sidewall cracking, dry rot, bulges or any loss of tread depth; all four tyres were flagged for slight damage or perishing, so replacement may be imminent. Verify that the rear wiper clears the glass cleanly and that the front off‑side wiper now operates effectively, as the previous failure suggests a possible motor or linkage fault. Examine the front brake discs for scoring and the pads for thinness – the advisories indicate they are already close to the minimum thickness and could require replacement soon. Pay particular attention to the rear brake hoses and pipework; the 2023 failure for excessive corrosion means the hoses may be brittle and could leak, which would be evident as a soft or spongy pedal, fluid on the rear axle, or a noticeable drop in braking performance. Inspect the suspension and chassis for the corrosion noted on both rear coil springs, front suspension arm pins and the rear axle. Look for rust flaking from the spring mounts, uneven ride height or any clunking noises when applying pressure over bumps, which would suggest worn bushings or compromised spring integrity. Because the car has spent considerable time idle, test the 12 V battery with a load tester and check for any difficulty in cranking the engine; a battery that is more than five years old may need replacement. Finally, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended intervals – time‑based fluid degradation can occur even with low mileage, and fresh fluids are essential for preventing internal corrosion and maintaining optimal performance.