2009 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · LR09 PEO

The most recent MOT on 17 March 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently satisfies the statutory safety standards. However, the preceding five‑year record shows a mixed maintenance pattern: two outright failures in May 2023 and May 2025 for fractured front coil springs and excessive ball‑joint wear, plus a series of tyre‑wear advisories each year and recurring corrosion notes on the rear coil springs. The successful test in March 2026 suggests that the major suspension faults were remedied, but the recurrence of similar issues points to a trend of intermittent corrective work rather than a consistently proactive maintenance regime. With 74 385 miles recorded on a 2009 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4 400 mi, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 mi per year. Such low utilisation often indicates periods of limited running or extended storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. Age‑related wear on rubber components, seals and corrosion‑prone parts can progress even when the engine is lightly used, and the low‑mileage figure does not guarantee the condition of wear items such as bushings, mounts or brake discs. Prospective buyers should give the front suspension a thorough inspection. Examine both front coil springs for any hairline cracks, corrosion at the mounting cups and signs of fatigue; a fractured spring will usually produce a noticeable clunk when the wheel is lifted or when driving over a bump. The ball joint on the off‑side should be checked for excessive play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; worn joints often manifest as a knocking noise under steering inputs or a vague vibration at higher speeds. All four tyres have repeatedly been flagged as close to the legal tread limit, so they should be measured for tread depth, sidewall cracking and dry‑rot; given the vehicle’s age, replacement of the tyre set is likely required. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness, as standing periods can cause disc corrosion and pad glazing. Beyond the suspension and tyres, verify the condition of age‑sensitive items. The 12‑volt battery may have diminished capacity after years of intermittent use and should be load‑tested. Check that all exterior lamps, particularly the near‑side front position lamp that previously failed, operate correctly. Fluid condition is another key indicator: engine oil, coolant and brake fluid should be sampled for colour and moisture, and any fluid older than two years ought to be replaced as part of a calendar service. Finally, request the service book or receipts for the recent suspension repairs to confirm that genuine Nissan components and appropriate torque settings were used, and look for evidence of regular oil changes and timing‑belt or chain servicing in line with the manufacturer’s schedule.