2013 Nissan Note 1.5L Diesel · FX63 LLP

The 2013 Nissan Note presents a mixed roadworthiness picture characterised by persistent recurrence of specific mechanical deficiencies rather than a uniformly clean record. While the most recent MOT on 2025-10-07 achieved a pass, the underlying pattern reveals a vehicle where certain critical systems have shown gradual degradation over several consecutive years. The front suspension arm bushings and ball joints appear repeatedly throughout the history, with wear documented in 2021, 2023, 2024, and again in the final 2025 test, suggesting a systemic issue rather than isolated incidents. This recurring nature of the same component failures indicates that while the last test may have been successful due to luck or timing, the underlying problem persists and could re-emerge under normal driving conditions. The mileage of 114,673 miles on a thirteen-year-old vehicle translates to approximately eight thousand eight hundred and twenty-three miles per annum, which aligns with typical usage patterns for its age. However, the distribution of mileage through the test history shows no dramatic acceleration spikes that would suggest sudden heavy use, nor does it reveal any prolonged periods of idling or storage. The consistent presence of rear registration plate deterioration across four separate MOTs (2023, 2024, 2025) represents a non-critical but visible sign of environmental exposure and potential chemical degradation, though it remains below the level of immediate safety concern. The steady progression of minor and moderate advisories from 2021 onward indicates a gradual accumulation of wear rather than abrupt breakdowns, making the vehicle's current condition somewhat more stable than earlier years but not immune to continued deterioration in key areas. Buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension arm assembly, which has exhibited progressive bushing wear across multiple MOT cycles. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking over bumps and check whether the front suspension feels stiff or exhibits a pronounced bounce when moving over uneven surfaces, as the worn bushings and ball joints are prone to transmitting vibration and creating harsher handling. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joint showed significant wear in the 2023 failed MOT and remains a point of concern given its prior severity rating; inspect the steering rack for any play at the steering wheel and ensure tightness of the rack mounting bolts. Additionally, the nearside front tyres were reported as worn close to legal limits in 2024 and exposed with ply or cord damage in the 2023 failed test, so verify tread depth regularly and consider that the sidewall condition may also be compromised. The front lower suspension arm pins and bushes also showed wear in 2021 and 2024, indicating that the entire front suspension geometry is under strain and requires careful monitoring before committing to ownership.