2018 Nissan Juke 1.6L Petrol · LL68 VTC

The most recent MOT test for the 2018 Nissan Juke was conducted on 2025-12-01 and resulted in a clean pass, marking the vehicle’s most recent compliance with roadworthiness standards. Despite this positive outcome, the MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories that warrant closer attention. The offside front suspension arm ball joint exhibited slight play in 2024, which is a critical component of the suspension system and can lead to uneven tyre wear, steering instability, or even wheel misalignment if left unaddressed. This advisory suggests that while the vehicle has passed inspection, the ball joint may be nearing the end of its serviceable life, particularly given its consistent presence across multiple tests. Additionally, the front brake pads were noted to be wearing thin in 2023, indicating that the braking system has been under significant stress, which could result in reduced stopping performance or premature pad replacement if not serviced promptly. These advisories, while not failing the MOT, signal areas where the vehicle’s structural integrity and operational reliability are being compromised over time. The recorded mileage of 68,635 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,579 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This figure does not suggest either excessive wear from high mileage accumulation or prolonged inactivity, though the slight variation in mileage between tests—such as the brief gap between 2021 and 2022—could imply periods of reduced use, potentially leading to minor issues like standing corrosion on brake components or fluid degradation in the cooling or hydraulic systems. However, the absence of a markedly high mileage trend does not necessarily mitigate the need for proactive maintenance, especially given the advisories on the suspension ball joint and brake pads. The suspension system, in particular, is more susceptible to wear when a vehicle stands idle for extended periods, as lubricants can dry out, leading to increased friction and premature failure of components like ball joints. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s mechanical systems, focusing on the suspension and braking components highlighted by the MOT advisories. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the suspension, such as clunks or rattles, particularly when navigating bumps or sharp turns, which may indicate worn suspension bushes, damaged coil springs, or failing ball joints. Inspect the offside front suspension arm for excessive play or binding, and verify that the steering remains straight without any lateral movement. Additionally, monitor the braking performance for any signs of pulsation, shuddering, or reduced effectiveness, which could signal worn brake pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Check for uneven tyre wear, which may correlate with suspension or alignment issues, and ensure that the tyres are within legal limits, including tread depth and sidewall condition. Beyond the immediate advisories, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s overall condition for signs of age-related wear and potential long-term issues. Given the vehicle’s age and the recorded mileage, inspect the tyres for any signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, poor connections, or reduced performance, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure due to internal degradation or prolonged disuse. Verify that all fluids—brake, coolant, transmission, and power steering—are at the correct levels and free from contamination or discolouration, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on seals, bearings, and other critical components. Finally, ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid changes and component replacements, as the advisories suggest that the suspension ball joint and brake pads may require attention soon. If the service book is incomplete, arrange for a comprehensive service to address any outstanding maintenance needs before finalising the purchase.