2016 Nissan Juke 1.6L Petrol · FV16 FFA

The Nissan Juke’s MOT history presents a mixed but ultimately concerning picture, with the most recent test in August 2025 revealing a critical failure—specifically, a major exhaust gas leak from the rear system at 75,991 miles. This was the second attempt that month, suggesting the issue was not addressed promptly after the initial failure. Prior to that, the vehicle had passed its August 2024 test at 73,334 miles with no defects, indicating the exhaust problem emerged suddenly or was overlooked in routine checks. The September 2023 test at 69,992 miles noted minor but telling tyre damage on both front tyres, which were likely replaced shortly afterward, as no further tyre advisories appear in subsequent tests. While the absence of defects in the 2022 and 2024 tests suggests intermittent compliance with basic roadworthiness, the exhaust failure and delayed rectification raise questions about either neglect or inconsistent maintenance. The Juke’s mileage accumulation—roughly 7,600 miles per year—aligns with typical usage for its age, though the clustering of tests around August suggests seasonal or opportunistic MOT scheduling rather than strict annual adherence. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests (13 months) is within DVSA tolerance, but the double failure in 2025 implies either a sudden component failure or a prolonged period where the issue was ignored. The lack of advisories in the 2024 test, followed by the immediate exhaust failure, may indicate a pre-existing weakness in the exhaust system that was not caught earlier, possibly due to poor inspection or masking by temporary fixes. For a prospective buyer, the exhaust system demands urgent attention—particularly the rear section, where the major leak suggests potential corrosion, loose clamps, or a fractured manifold. Given the Juke’s age, the suspension should also be scrutinised for worn bushes, coil springs, or signs of binding in the rear brakes, as these are common wear points in this model. The previous tyre damage advisories, while resolved, hint at exposure to harsh conditions or underinflation, so checking for uneven tread wear or hidden corrosion on wheel arches is prudent. Structural integrity, especially around the sills and wheel wells, should be inspected for rust penetration, as this can compromise safety and lead to costly repairs. The absence of other defects in recent tests does not negate the need for a thorough pre-purchase inspection, given the exhaust failure’s severity and the vehicle’s age.