2012 Nissan Navara 2.5L Diesel · LJ12 LNP

Expect fuel economy in the region of 30-35 mpg combined for the 2.5 diesel Navara, depending on load and whether a hardtop or canopy is fitted. Road tax for a 2012 2488cc diesel falls into a higher VED band, and this engine size typically sits in insurance group 11-13 for commercial-style pickups, so premiums are moderate rather than cheap. Routine maintenance such as timing chain, clutch and dual-mass flywheel replacements on these vehicles is known to be costly, and a vehicle at 144k miles is approaching territory where these jobs become likely.

Estimated annual running cost: £1,200-£1,600, accounting for higher-than-average fuel use typical of pickup buyers, mid-range insurance, diesel VED, and realistic maintenance given the mileage and age. If the brake and suspension items from the recent MOT were not proactively replaced, add at least £400-£800 to that figure in the first year of ownership.

Start by physically inspecting every item from the October 2025 MOT failure list. Jack the vehicle and check both front track rod end ball joints for play, both front lower suspension arm ball joints, and all visible brake pipes (front and rear) for corrosion or weeping. Confirm all wheel fixings are present and torqued correctly, that the brake pedal rubber is intact, that the offside door mirror is undamaged, that the windscreen sweep is unobstructed, and that the nearside headlamp produces a correctly aimed beam.

Then move to the items raised in the October 2024 failure: the rear brake master cylinder and both rear brake pipes. Corrosion in this area at 125k miles suggests the rear underbody may be heavily oxidised, so get underneath (or use a ramp at an inspection) and look at the chassis rails, fuel lines and subframe mounting points. The 2023 pass advisory noted offside rear brake pipe corrosion and offside track rod end play — both consistent with a vehicle being used heavily and possibly left outdoors. Finally, listen for timing chain rattle on cold start, check for excessive clutch slip, and inspect the propshaft and rear diff for leaks, as these are common wear items on the Navara at this mileage.