2009 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · LB09 VWD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 18 August 2026 with no defects recorded. However, the preceding two years reveal a concerning maintenance trend characterized by multiple failures and a reactive approach to vehicle upkeep. The history shows a pattern of neglecting basic consumables, specifically brake pads and tyres, to the point of dangerous failure, alongside recurring issues with suspension bushes and sub-frame components. While the most recent clean sheet suggests recent rectification, the overall trajectory indicates a vehicle that has been maintained to a minimum legal standard rather than a preventative one. With a recorded mileage of 108,466 miles over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,380 miles per year. This is a typical usage rate for a small city car of this vintage, suggesting it has not suffered from the extreme wear of high-mileage commuting nor the degradation associated with prolonged standing. However, at this mileage, the drivetrain and chassis are entering a phase where wear on non-serviceable items becomes more prevalent, and the history of suspension failures suggests the chassis has been subjected to typical urban stress. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the braking system and front-end geometry. The recurring advisories for pitted and scored brake discs, combined with previous dangerous failures for worn pads, suggest a history of brake neglect. During a test drive, listen for grinding noises or feel for pulsations through the brake pedal, which would indicate warped or heavily scored discs. Furthermore, the history of worn sub-frame pins and suspension arm bushes necessitates a thorough check for steering vagueness or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. The recorded oil leak and previous exhaust leak are points of concern that require physical verification. Inspect the engine bay and the underside of the vehicle for fresh oil residue, as a persistent leak can lead to premature engine wear or contaminate other rubber components. Verify that the exhaust system is secure and free from soot marks, which would indicate a recurring leak. Finally, given the age of the vehicle, ensure the service history confirms regular oil and filter changes, as the combination of moderate mileage and a noted oil leak suggests the engine may require a more rigorous inspection of its seals and gaskets.