2014 Nissan Note 1.2L Petrol · LL64 WYV

The latest MOT test for the 2014 Nissan Note recorded a passing result on 2025-11-06, with no outright failures but three advisories that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past seven years is stable, as evidenced by consistent passing MOTs until 2024, followed by the introduction of recurring tyre-related advisories. These advisories—particularly the nearside and offside front tyres worn close to the legal limit and the rear offside tyre showing signs of cracking—suggest a pattern of either underinflation, excessive load distribution, or prolonged periods of low-speed driving that accelerates tyre wear. The absence of more severe defects in previous years implies that maintenance has been generally adequate, but the advisories indicate that the vehicle has not been driven under optimal conditions to mitigate tyre degradation. The recorded mileage of 45,109 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 3,759 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage can result from light usage, long periods of inactivity, or the vehicle being kept in a garage or less active environment. While low mileage generally reduces wear on drivetrain components and fluid degradation, it can also lead to specific issues related to standing conditions. For example, standing for extended periods can cause brake discs to corrode or develop binding calipers due to moisture ingress, and tyres may develop uneven wear patterns or sidewall perishing from prolonged exposure to environmental elements. Additionally, fluids like the brake fluid and differential oil can degrade over time due to evaporation and oxidation, even without significant mileage accumulation. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect for this vehicle are the tyres, brakes, and structural components affected by standing. Begin with a visual inspection of the tyres, checking for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. The front tyres, in particular, should be examined for consistent tread depth and any signs of cupping or uneven wear, which may indicate suspension or alignment issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual suspension noises, such as clunks or rattles, which could suggest worn suspension bushes or coil springs. Next, inspect the brakes thoroughly, including the discs for corrosion or binding, and the calipers for any signs of sticking or excessive heat discolouration. A thorough check of the brake fluid level and condition is also essential, as standing vehicles can lead to fluid degradation over time. For fluids and systems that do not require frequent servicing, consider checking the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged inactivity can lead to reduced capacity or corrosion. Inspect the battery terminals for signs of oxidation or corrosion, and test its charge level to ensure it can meet the vehicle’s demands. Additionally, examine the exhaust system for leaks or structural damage, as prolonged standing can cause rust to accumulate in the catalytic converter or exhaust pipes. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records have been updated, particularly for time-based servicing such as the oil change, which should ideally be conducted every 15,000 to 20,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Given the vehicle’s low mileage and age, a thorough inspection of the engine compartment for leaks, fluid levels, and signs of wear will also be prudent, as standing conditions can exacerbate potential issues that might not be apparent under normal driving conditions.