2010 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · LL60 UPP

The most recent DVSA examination on this 2010 Nissan Note resulted in a PASS on 6 November 2025, although a closely related test on the same date initially issued a FAIL due to a Major defect categorised as an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm ball joint. The vehicle subsequently passed after rectification, and the surrounding advisory items were carried forward unchanged across both entries. A review of the broader MOT sequence indicates a reasonably stable maintenance trend rather than a sharply deteriorating one, though a clear pattern has emerged around front suspension wear and front tyre condition. The 2022 and 2023 tests were largely free of structural concerns, but from 2024 onward the advisories have concentrated on front axle components, with both front suspension arm rear bushes noted as deteriorated and both front tyres flagged for edge wear in consecutive years. This progressive concentration of advisories in the same area suggests the front suspension is entering a phase of accelerated wear and warrants close mechanical attention. With a recorded mileage of 86,144 miles over approximately 16 years, the vehicle averages around 5,384 miles annually, which is notably below the typical mileage profile for a car of this age. Such low annual usage frequently points to short journeys, occasional weekend use, or extended periods of standing between drives, and while this is generally favourable for major drivetrain components, it brings specific mechanical risks. Brake discs and calipers can suffer from surface corrosion and binding due to infrequent operation, coolant and brake fluid degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, and the 12V battery is more prone to sulphation and premature failure when not kept regularly charged. The MOT record contains no significant mileage gaps indicating long-term standing, but the overall low figure should prompt verification of time-served components such as the cambelt if applicable to the engine variant, the cooling system, and all under-bonnet fluids. Given the recurring advisories relating to the nearside and offside front suspension arm rear bushes and the recent Major failure on the nearside front ball joint, this area demands particular scrutiny during a physical inspection and test drive. The front suspension arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and track rod ends should be examined for perished or cracked rubber, and a thorough assessment of the front tyres should be performed, paying attention to uneven shoulder wear on both edges which is consistent with the advisory history and may indicate misalignment or worn suspension geometry. On a test drive, listen for clonks, knocking, or rattling noises over uneven surfaces, speed humps, and when turning the steering from lock to lock, and feel for vagueness in steering response or wandering at speed. The brake pedal should be checked for firmness, and the vehicle brought to a controlled stop to detect any shuddering through the steering wheel which would suggest corroded or warped front discs, a common issue on low-mileage vehicles that have stood for extended periods. In addition to the suspension concerns, general age-related checks remain essential for a sixteen-year-old vehicle. The sidewalls of all four tyres should be closely inspected for perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with age even when tread depth remains legal, and a recent advisory noted cracking within the rear tyre treads which should not recur on a replacement. Verify that a complete service history is present, particularly evidence that the brake fluid and engine coolant have been renewed within the manufacturer recommended timescales, as these are frequently overlooked on low-mileage vehicles. The operation of all electrical items, including headlamp lens condition which was previously noted as slightly hazed, wiper blades, and registration plate lamps, should be confirmed, and a battery health test would be prudent given the likelihood of irregular use. Finally, examine the underside for any signs of fluid leaks, corrosion to structural or load-bearing areas, and exhaust integrity, as these are common MOT failure points for vehicles of this vintage and may not yet be reflected in the recorded advisory history.