2013 Nissan Juke 1.6L Petrol · LR13 JOU

The most recent MOT on 20 January 2026 was passed, but it carried two advisories – a measurable play in the off‑side steering rack inner joint (tie‑rod) and a deteriorating rear‑exhaust silencer. Over the preceding five years the record shows a mixture of minor advisories and two failures: a major failure for excessive play in the near‑side track‑rod end in February 2025 and an earlier major failure for an excessively worn off‑side lower‑arm ball joint in January 2022. Although the vehicle has cleared the last test, the recurrence of steering and suspension wear points to a gradual decline rather than an improving trend, meaning the next service should address these components before they become safety‑critical. At 73,851 mi the Juke averages roughly 5,700 mi per year, which is well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 mi annually for a vehicle of its age. The low annual mileage suggests the car has spent considerable periods stationary, a factor that can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of seals and mounts. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would indicate a period of heavy abuse, so the primary mechanical wear will be time‑related rather than driven‑distance related. A prospective buyer should give the steering and suspension system a thorough inspection. Verify that the off‑side rack tie‑rod and both track‑rod ends are free of play by checking for any clunk or looseness when the wheel is turned at the lock and by feeling for any wobble at the steering wheel at speed. Pay particular attention to the near‑side track‑rod end, which previously exhibited excessive play, and the off‑side lower‑arm ball joint, which has shown severe wear in the past. Any audible knock when negotiating bumps, a vague steering wander, or uneven tyre wear on the inner edges will be symptomatic of worn bushings or ball joints that should be replaced promptly. The rear‑exhaust silencer should be examined for rust‑through, holes or loose mounting brackets; a rattling noise at low speed or a noticeable increase in exhaust noise would confirm the need for replacement. Tyre condition is a further concern: multiple advisories have highlighted front tyres worn close to the legal limit and near‑side rear tyres showing cracking, perishing and flat‑spotting. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm), sidewall cracks, and any signs of uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or suspension issues. Given the vehicle’s age and likely long periods of inactivity, check the battery voltage and load capacity, as a 13‑year‑old unit may be near the end of its service life. Finally, confirm that time‑based fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been refreshed within the last 12‑24 months, and examine the brake discs for surface rust or scoring and the pads for remaining thickness. A comprehensive visual and road‑test inspection covering these points will give a clear picture of any imminent maintenance required before committing to purchase.