2007 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · KB57 BVR

The 2007 Nissan Note achieved a clean PASSED result in its most recent MOT on 2026-08-27, marking a positive turnaround following a history of recurring advisories and minor failures. While earlier MOTs revealed persistent issues such as corrosion in both rear coil springs and worn suspension arm bushes—particularly on the front—these problems were consistently classified as non-critical, with no failures or major defects recorded beyond the 2023 headlamp aim failure. The vehicle’s maintenance trend appears to be stabilising, with the latest test confirming no active roadworthiness defects, though the presence of historical advisories suggests ongoing wear that may require closer attention over time. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 164,189 miles over approximately 19 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,642 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. The consistent mileage accumulation indicates regular use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity, which could have exacerbated issues like corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the absence of significant mileage spikes or abrupt increases suggests that wear rates on consumables such as tyres, brakes, and fluids have been relatively steady. Still, the high mileage underscores the need for a thorough inspection of high-wear components, particularly the drivetrain and suspension, where cumulative stress may have contributed to the recorded advisories. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and drivetrain, given the recurring advisories on coil springs and suspension arm bushes. Visually check for signs of further corrosion on the rear coil springs, particularly near the mounting points, and listen for unusual clunking or rattling when driving over bumps or at speed—symptoms that may indicate bush wear or spring failure. The front suspension arms should be examined for any signs of binding or excessive play, which could lead to misalignment or handling issues. During a test drive, pay particular attention to steering responsiveness, as worn suspension components can cause a vehicle to feel sluggish or pull to one side. Additionally, inspect the constant velocity (CV) joints and their boots, as the 2022 MOT noted severe deterioration in the near-side joint boot, which could lead to oil leaks or transmission problems if not addressed promptly. Beyond the suspension, the oil leak advisories from previous MOTs warrant further investigation. Check under the vehicle for any oil pooling, particularly around the engine bay, transmission area, and exhaust manifold, as oil leaks can accelerate wear on seals, gaskets, and bearings. If leaks are confirmed, a comprehensive inspection of the engine and transmission fluid levels is essential, as degraded fluid can lead to increased friction and premature component failure. For the brakes, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, inspect the discs and linings for signs of glazing, corrosion, or uneven wear, which can indicate binding calipers or hydraulic issues. Lastly, while the MOT history is clean in the latest test, a thorough visual check of the headlamps and registration plate lamps is prudent, as previous failures highlight potential electrical or wiring concerns that could recur. Prioritise a service history review to confirm that fluid changes—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—have been conducted according to manufacturer recommendations, as fluid degradation can accelerate mechanical failure over time.