2013 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · LS04 MCU

A fractured front coil spring that caused an MOT failure on 1 April 2026 is the most significant mechanical finding in this Nissan Note's recent history, and although the vehicle subsequently passed an MOT on 9 April 2026 after the repair, the underlying wear pattern that produced that failure deserves close scrutiny. The fractured nearside front coil spring, combined with advisories for corroded exhaust system components and worn, pitted front brake discs, was recorded on both the failed and passed tests within the same month, strongly suggesting that the coil spring was replaced just before the retest while the other two issues were carried forward as advisories. This indicates a vehicle with active corrosion and wear developing across multiple under-vehicle systems. Prior to this event, the 2023 and 2025 tests passed cleanly with no defects, but the 2024 test recorded advisories for cracking and perishing on both rear tyres, hinting that degradation of consumables and underbody components is now accelerating rather than remaining static. The recorded mileage of 87,836 miles across roughly 13 years equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 6,757 miles, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and suggests consistent but moderate use rather than long periods off the road or excessive high-mileage driving. There are no extended gaps in the testing history that would indicate the vehicle was laid up for multiple consecutive years, so the mechanical condition observed should reflect genuine wear rather than the kind of component degradation that occurs when rubber seals, brake hydraulic systems, and fuel system components stagnate. Moderate but consistent annual use of this kind typically results in predictable wear on suspension bushes, engine mounts, and brake components, and the recent failures and advisories are consistent with a vehicle now entering the phase of its life where original-equipment suspension and exhaust parts begin to require replacement. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority is to confirm that the fractured nearside front coil spring was replaced with a new unit rather than a second-hand part, and to inspect the offside front coil spring for any signs of cracking or sagging, as coil springs commonly fail in pairs once one has reached the end of its service life. A careful test drive over uneven road surfaces and speed humps is essential to listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension, which could indicate that the spring replacement was not carried out thoroughly or that adjacent components such as the top mounts, shock absorbers, or suspension arms have been compromised. Any pulling to one side under braking, excessive body roll through corners, or a harsh, unsettled ride quality would point to further suspension wear that warrants investigation. With the front brake discs already flagged as pitted and scored, the buyer should budget for replacement of the discs and pads in the near future, particularly if pulsation through the brake pedal is felt during the test drive, as this is a classic symptom of warped or unevenly worn discs. The corroded exhaust system advisory is also a meaningful concern on a 13-year-old vehicle, and it should be inspected from the manifold gasket through to the rear silencer for any signs of significant rust, blowing joints, or thin metal that may soon develop holes. With the engine running, listen for any ticking, hissing, or irregular exhaust noises that change with engine speed, and check for any smell of exhaust gases inside the cabin, which would suggest a compromised gasket or heat shield. The 2024 advisories for perished rear tyres suggest the vehicle may have been stored or used in conditions that accelerated rubber degradation, and all four tyres should be inspected for age-related cracking in the sidewalls and tread grooves regardless of remaining tread depth. Finally, given the mileage and age, a thorough inspection of the engine oil for any signs of water contamination, a check of the coolant for proper concentration, and verification that the timing chain or belt service interval is within specification would be prudent measures to ensure that the mechanical fundamentals remain sound beneath the documented advisories.