2011 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · GU61 VUS

The Nissan Micra presents a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass on 16 January 2026 at 90,939 miles with zero defects recorded. This is a significant improvement over the 2025 test, where the tester flagged perished inner suspension bushes on both front lower arms and a worn nearside front tyre. The fact that these items do not appear in the 2026 record suggests the previous owner addressed the suspension wear and replaced the tyre promptly. A single bulb failure caused a fail in February 2024, which was rectified the same day, indicating minor electrical faults were dealt with immediately rather than ignored. The annual mileage accumulation of roughly 6,000 miles is consistent with light urban or suburban use. Between February 2025 and January 2026, the car covered approximately 7,300 miles, which is slightly above the long-term average but not excessive. There are no alarming gaps in the MOT record that would suggest the vehicle sat stationary for extended periods, and the steady progression from 70,766 miles in February 2023 to 90,939 miles in January 2026 confirms regular use. The mileage pattern does not raise concerns about either neglect through underuse or severe wear from high-mileage commuting. Despite the clean 2026 result, a buyer should still inspect the front suspension components in person. The 2025 advisories regarding the lower arm inner bushes starting to unbond indicate the front end has experienced age-related deterioration typical of a fifteen-year-old vehicle. While the issue was evidently resolved, checking for uneven tyre wear, clunking over speed bumps, or vague steering will confirm the repairs were done properly. The nearside front tyre wear noted in 2025 also warrants a close look at wheel alignment and tracking, as repeated edge wear on the same side often points to a misaligned tracking setup rather than just a one-off tyre replacement. The braking system and structural underside deserve attention at any inspection. With no recent advisories on brake components, the system appears sound, but a physical check for corroded brake lines, uneven disc wear, and binding calipers is prudent given the car's age. Underbody corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and subframes, should be examined carefully, as road salt exposure over fifteen years can compromise structural integrity even when the MOT record remains clean. The exhaust system and its mountings should also be checked for corrosion and gas leaks, as older exhausts can deteriorate between tests without triggering an immediate advisory.