2018 Nissan Micra 0.9L Petrol · LP68 VCD

The most recent MOT test for this 2018 Nissan Micra was conducted on 2025-12-10 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has met all roadworthiness standards at that time. However, the overall maintenance trend over the past three years is concerning, as it reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than consistent compliance. The vehicle failed its MOT in December 2023 due to a major defect—a fractured offside rear coil spring—which is a critical failure affecting structural integrity and ride quality. This defect was not present in the previous MOTs, suggesting either a sudden mechanical failure or a misdiagnosis in earlier tests. The subsequent advisory regarding tyre damage or perishing also surfaced in 2023, reinforcing the need for immediate attention to both components. While the 2024 and 2025 MOTs passed without defects, the history suggests underlying wear or neglect that may have led to the spring failure, potentially indicating broader issues with suspension components or substandard maintenance practices. The recorded mileage of 17,377 miles for an eight-year-old vehicle represents an unusually low annual usage rate of approximately 2,172 miles per year, which is far below the typical wear thresholds for this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged stationary use, which can accelerate wear on several critical systems. For instance, standing vehicles are prone to corrosion in brake systems, particularly on brake discs and calipers, where moisture and road salt can cause rusting or binding. Additionally, the suspension components, especially coil springs and bushings, may degrade faster when not subjected to regular dynamic loading, increasing the risk of premature failure as seen with the fractured spring. Tyres, while not heavily used, are still susceptible to sidewall cracking or perishing due to age-related vulcanisation breakdown, especially if stored in suboptimal conditions. The discrepancy between mileage and age also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven in demanding conditions or subjected to excessive stress, which could have contributed to the mechanical failures observed. Given the history of defects and advisories, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear offside coil spring and associated components. The fractured spring indicates a severe structural failure that must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage to the chassis or alignment issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, especially when cornering or over bumps, which may signal loose or degraded suspension elements. Inspect the rear wheels for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could imply misalignment caused by the spring failure. Additionally, examine the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs and pads, as well as any binding or excessive heat discolouration, which may suggest standing-related issues. The tyre advisories strongly recommend replacing all tyres, as cracked or perishing sidewalls compromise safety and handling, particularly at higher speeds. If the buyer is unable to replace the tyres immediately, consider fitting temporary or winter tyres to mitigate risks until a full replacement is carried out. For the remaining systems, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical and functional inspection tailored to the vehicle’s age and low-mileage profile. Focus on the tyre condition, ensuring that the sidewalls are free of cracks, delamination, or dry rot, as these can lead to sudden blowouts. Check the tyre tread depth for legal compliance (minimum 1.6mm) and look for signs of uneven wear, which may indicate alignment or suspension issues that warrant further investigation. The battery should be tested for health, as low usage can lead to sulphation or poor connections, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. Inspect the 12V battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, and consider a load test to confirm its capacity. Fluid levels, including the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, should be checked for contamination or degradation, as fluids can break down over time even with low mileage. A service history check would be beneficial to confirm whether scheduled maintenance, such as valve adjustments, spark plug replacements, or fluid changes, has been conducted. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or corrosion, as prolonged standing can accelerate rusting in the catalytic converter or muffler, potentially leading to emissions-related failures. If the vehicle has been driven in areas with high salt or pollution, additional checks for corrosion on the undercarriage and fuel system components are advisable.