2013 Nissan Note 1.2L Petrol · GU63 TTV

The Nissan Note’s MOT history presents a concerning inconsistency in recent testing, with two consecutive failures in December 2025—one just 10 miles apart—followed by an immediate pass. No defects were recorded in any of these tests, which suggests the failures may stem from administrative or procedural issues rather than mechanical faults. The most recent pass in December 2025 at 48,109 miles indicates the vehicle met all DVSA thresholds, but the repeated failures without explanation raise questions about the reliability of the testing process or potential oversight. Given the lack of defects, there’s no evidence of worsening mechanical trends, yet the pattern of back-to-back failures is unusual and warrants further scrutiny. The vehicle’s mileage accumulation is exceptionally low for its age, averaging just 3,701 miles per year over 13 years. Between January 2024 and December 2025, the odometer progressed by a mere 10,820 miles—less than 1,000 miles annually—before stalling entirely in late 2025. This suggests either very light use, prolonged periods of disuse, or an incorrect odometer reading. The gap between the January 2024 tests (both at 37,289 miles) also implies the car may have sat unused for months before being driven minimally. Such low mileage typically reduces wear on consumables like tyres and brakes, but it can also mask hidden issues if the vehicle has been neglected during inactive periods. Given the clean MOT record, a buyer should still verify key structural and mechanical components in person. Focus on the suspension—check for worn bushes, degraded coil springs, or uneven tyre wear, which could indicate misalignment or neglect during periods of disuse. Inspect the brakes thoroughly, particularly the rear calipers, as binding or uneven pad wear often goes unnoticed without regular driving. Examine the undercarriage for corrosion, especially around wheel arches and exhaust mounts, given the vehicle’s age and potential exposure to moisture. Finally, confirm the odometer reading is accurate, as the mileage pattern is unusually low for a 13-year-old car, and verify that no major servicing—such as timing belt replacement or fluid changes—has been deferred. While the MOT history shows no major defects, the irregular testing pattern and suspiciously low mileage demand closer inspection. The absence of advisories or failures on critical items is positive, but the vehicle’s history raises red flags about its actual usage and maintenance discipline. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised before committing to the purchase.