2013 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · FP63 FVM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 November 2025, was passed but returned several advisories – notably a slightly loose off‑side front mirror, wear on the off‑side front lower suspension arm bush, and a minor sidewall blemish on the off‑side front tyre. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring advisory items rather than new major failures, with the only failures being a tyre cut in 2022 and an ineffective windscreen wiper in 2020. This suggests a maintenance trajectory that is broadly stable; the car has not developed new serious defects, but the persistence of suspension‑related advisories and tyre wear indicates that components are approaching the end of their serviceable life and will likely require attention soon. At 73 804 miles on a 2013 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 5 700 miles, well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 miles per year. The low utilisation points to periods of light driving or prolonged storage, which can be beneficial for engine wear but may have allowed corrosion to develop on suspended components and can lead to tyre perishing from age rather than tread wear. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would suggest a period of intensive use, so the wear observed is more likely a function of calendar ageing than high‑stress mileage accumulation. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the front suspension and steering assemblies. Inspect the off‑side front lower arm bush for any excess play, creaking or uneven movement when the wheel is rocked, and check the inner joint of the steering rack for looseness that could manifest as vague steering feel or a slight clunk under hard cornering. The near‑side rear coil springs have been flagged as corroded for three consecutive years; visual inspection for rust, cracks or loss of spring integrity is essential, and a bounce test should reveal any loss of damping. The front brake disc was noted as worn in 2023; measure disc thickness and listen for any high‑pitched squeal or shudder when braking, as the disc may be approaching the minimum safe limit and could need resurfacing or replacement. Tyre sidewalls have shown damage on both front tyres and perishing on the rears – verify that the sidewalls are free of cracks, bulges or cuts, and confirm that tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm on all four wheels; uneven wear could indicate mis‑aligned suspension or worn bushings. Given the vehicle’s age and relatively low mileage, time‑based maintenance is as important as mileage‑based service. Check the condition of the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge, especially if the car has spent long periods idle. Examine all rubber components – wiper blades, CV joint gaiter clips and seals – for brittleness or cracking, and replace any that are compromised. Ensure that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals, as fluids degrade with time even when the car is not driven heavily. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and that any outstanding recalls for the Micra have been addressed. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and any imminent investment required.