2009 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · LO09 WFF

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 20 April 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is the most relevant indicator of the vehicle's current roadworthy condition. The overall maintenance trend appears stable based on the limited history available, though it is worth noting that every recorded test in 2025 and 2026 shows a paired failure followed by a pass on the same date, suggesting minor rectification work was carried out immediately after each initial inspection. This pattern is not unusual for an older vehicle and does not necessarily indicate underlying mechanical concern, but a prospective buyer should request documentation confirming what remedial work was performed between each failed and passed submission. With only four recorded tests in recent years and no advisory notes whatsoever, there is no specific defect history to draw mechanical conclusions from, which makes a pre-purchase physical inspection particularly important. The recorded mileage of 65,806 miles on a 17 year old Nissan Micra equates to an annual average of approximately 3,871 miles, which is substantially below the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual mileage generally reflects a combination of light running and prolonged periods of standing, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Extended standing time can lead to brake disc corrosion and binding, deterioration of rubber components such as suspension bushes, drive belt perishing, and accelerated ageing of brake fluid and coolant due to calendar degradation rather than wear. Equally, low mileage can mask the effects of infrequent servicing, so it is essential to verify that the vehicle has been maintained on a time-based rather than purely mileage-based schedule. Given the clean MOT record and the low usage profile, a prospective buyer should focus their inspection on age-related deterioration rather than wear-based defects. Begin with a thorough examination of all four tyres, checking not just tread depth but more critically the sidewalls and tread face for cracking, perishing, and dry rot, as tyres older than around six years become hard and lose grip regardless of remaining tread. The 12 volt battery is likely to be a maintenance item requiring replacement at this age, so check its date code and ensure the engine starts promptly without hesitation. Inspect all rubber boots, gaiters, and suspension bushes for signs of perishing, and pay particular attention to the condition of the timing chain, a known wear item on the Nissan Micra K12, listening for any rattle on cold start which may indicate stretch. During the test drive, listen for suspension clonks over uneven surfaces, feel for any brake shudder or pulling that may indicate corroded or warped discs from standing, and check for any warning lights on the dashboard. Finally, given the absence of recent advisory notes, request evidence of time-based servicing including brake fluid exchange (recommended every two years regardless of mileage), coolant renewal, and spark plug replacement on age rather than mileage. Verify the service book stamps or digital records and cross reference the gaps against the MOT dates to ensure no prolonged periods without maintenance. Examine the underbody, wheel arches, and sill seams for any surface corrosion or underseal deterioration, as even low mileage vehicles in the UK are susceptible to rust through winter road salt exposure. Check that all warning lights extinguish correctly after start up, that the air conditioning functions effectively (seals and refrigerant can degrade with disuse), and that the exhaust emits no unusual smoke or noises. A handheld OBD scan for any stored fault codes would be prudent, and an independent pre-purchase inspection by a qualified technician is strongly recommended given the vehicle's age and the limited MOT defect information available.