2014 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · LL64 WNB

The most recent MOT recorded on 15 December 2025 resulted in a failure, the examiner citing a front brake disc that is significantly worn and front brake pads measured at less than 1.5 mm thickness – both classified as major safety defects. Prior to that date the vehicle had enjoyed a string of passes, but the appearance of brake‑related failures and tyre advisories over the last five years indicates a gradual deterioration rather than an improvement in condition. The pattern suggests that while routine maintenance may have kept the car road‑worthy for a time, the wear on the braking system and the tyre perishing have now reached a point where corrective work is required before the car can be considered safe for continued use. At 45,537 miles on a 2014 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 3,800 mi, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or long intervals of storage. Light mileage reduces the cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, yet it also raises the likelihood of age‑related degradation such as tyre dry‑rot, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings that can develop when a car sits for extended periods. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would suggest a recent period of heavy use, so the mechanical wear profile is more likely to be governed by calendar effects than by high‑stress operation. The immediate priority for any prospective buyer is the front braking system. With discs described as “significantly and obviously worn” and pads below the legal minimum thickness, replacement of both discs and pads is essential; failure to do so will manifest as a soft or spongy pedal feel, increased stopping distances and, if the discs are close to the hub, a grinding noise under heavy braking. Inspect the caliper pistons for signs of sticking or uneven pad wear, and verify that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two years – old fluid can absorb moisture and reduce braking efficiency. The tyre advisories from 2020 and 2021, noting cracking, perishing and tread close to the legal limit on both front wheels, also demand thorough examination; look for dry‑rot on the sidewalls, uneven wear patterns that could indicate mis‑alignment, and measure tread depth with a gauge. If any tyre shows structural compromise, replacement is advisable before the next MOT. Beyond the brakes and tyres, a comprehensive visual and functional check should cover the suspension and steering components – examine the condition of the front and rear bushes, ball joints and coil springs for corrosion or cracking, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester; a battery that has sat idle for years often loses capacity and may fail under load. Verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been serviced according to the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, as fluids degrade with time even when the vehicle is not driven heavily. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage and wheel arches for rust, ensure the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive corrosion, and confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any required timing‑chain or belt inspections appropriate to the Micra’s engine. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s true roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it up to a safe, reliable standard.