2014 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · LR14 DHO

The Nissan Micra presented a clean pass on its most recent MOT test conducted on 14 July 2026, with no defects or advisories recorded by the DVSA examiner. Reviewing the broader test history, the vehicle has demonstrated a consistently stable maintenance trend, securing pass certificates at every annual assessment dating back to 2019, with no failures recorded within the available records. A single advisory was noted during the 2025 test regarding wear to the offside front suspension arm pin or bush, though this was deemed not severe enough to constitute a failure at that time. The absence of any repeat advisories on this component in the 2026 examination suggests that the wear has not progressed to a concerning level, although it remains an area worth monitoring given the calendar age of the components involved. With a recorded mileage of 30,337 miles across approximately twelve years of service, this Micra has averaged around 2,528 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this type. Such low usage figures often indicate either predominantly short urban journeys or extended periods of standing, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Limited mileage can mask issues associated with prolonged inactivity, including premature degradation of rubber components, fluid oxidation, and electrical system drain, whilst the relatively light wear on mechanical drivetrain elements should mean that major components such as the engine, gearbox, and clutch remain in good condition. It is worth establishing whether the mileage has been accrued steadily or whether there are significant gaps in usage that could point to long storage periods. Given the low annual mileage and the advancing age of the vehicle, a prospective buyer should undertake several physical inspections that are not always captured during standard MOT testing. Tyre condition warrants particular attention, as tyres fitted to low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from sidewall perishing and cracking due to age-related rubber degradation rather than tread wear, and any tyres older than five years should be carefully examined for their DOT date code and general integrity. The 12V battery should be tested for its state of charge and holding capacity, as batteries on seldom-driven vehicles are prone to sulphation and premature failure, often manifesting as slow cranking or intermittent starting issues. Brake discs and calipers are also vulnerable when a vehicle has stood for prolonged periods, with surface corrosion and binding calipers being common findings; these can present as brake shudder, uneven stopping, or pulling to one side under braking during a test drive. Service history verification is equally important given the low recorded mileage, as it is essential to confirm whether time-based servicing items have been attended to regardless of the odometer reading. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable all degrade over time and should be replaced at manufacturer-recommended intervals rather than purely on mileage, so checking the service book for calendar-based entries is advisable. During a test drive, listen carefully for any clonks, knocks, or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the offside where the previous advisory was raised, as worn suspension bushes can deteriorate further before becoming evident on an MOT roller test. Finally, inspect the underside and wheel arches for any signs of surface corrosion consistent with the vehicle's age, and ensure there are no fluid leaks from the engine or transmission that might indicate dried seals beginning to weep following periods of inactivity.