2012 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · KA03 LLY

The 2012 Nissan Note’s most recent MOT test on 2025-10-28 was a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failures and advisories. While the vehicle has experienced recurring issues—particularly with front brake components and sub-frame corrosion—the trend over the past three years shows a significant improvement, with only minor advisories noted in 2024-11-13 and no failures since the 2024-11-12 test. This suggests that the vehicle has either been addressed promptly or that the underlying wear patterns are stabilising, though the presence of persistent advisories indicates ongoing, though not critical, mechanical wear that requires ongoing attention. The recorded mileage of 136,989 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,785 miles per annum, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this model. Such mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but it does imply that the vehicle has been subjected to regular use, particularly in the last few years, which may have accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests that the car has been in active service, potentially contributing to the observed corrosion and brake wear patterns, though the recent MOT pass suggests these issues are not yet at a critical stage. Given the recurring advisories—particularly the front brake discs showing pitting and scoring, the sub-frame corrosion, and the binding service brakes—buyers should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, excessive vibration or shuddering during braking, or grinding noises that could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Inspect the front brake discs for deep grooves, cracks, or uneven wear, and check the brake calipers for binding or excessive play, which may suggest internal wear or misalignment. Additionally, visually verify the sub-frame for signs of rust progression, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mountings, and ensure there is no excessive play or clunking when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or coil springs. For the rear exhaust leak and rusty axle noted in past tests, buyers should confirm that the exhaust system is fully sealed and free from cracks or corrosion, as a major leak could lead to emissions non-compliance and increased fuel consumption. Inspect the rear axle for signs of rust, particularly around the differential cover and drive shafts, and ensure there is no excessive play or unusual noises when accelerating or decelerating. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant attention to tyre condition, with particular focus on sidewall perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage if the tyres have been stored or used in harsh conditions. Check the tyres for cracks, delamination, or uneven wear patterns, and ensure the tread depth is legal and evenly distributed. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, a practical inspection of the 12V battery health, including checking for corrosion on terminals and ensuring the battery holds a charge, is advisable, as older batteries may struggle with cold-starting or prolonged periods of inactivity. Additionally, verify that service records confirm the last fluid service, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage, and their degradation can exacerbate wear or corrosion.