2010 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · LS10 OSF

The most recent MOT test passed on 4 November 2025, although it included an advisory regarding light oil misting on the offside front shock absorber. Evaluating the broader maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a pattern of intermittent failures related to suspension and lighting, specifically regarding fractured coil springs in both 2021 and 2024. While the vehicle has consistently passed its tests, the recent advisory suggests that the suspension components are entering a phase of age-related wear and may require replacement in the near future to prevent a future failure. With 100,323 miles recorded over approximately 16 years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 6,270 miles per year. This represents a moderate to low usage profile, which is generally positive for the longevity of the engine and drivetrain components. However, such relatively low annual mileage can sometimes lead to other issues, such as rubber components perishing from lack of use or fluids degrading due to time rather than distance. The mileage is consistent with the vehicle's age and does not suggest any unusual or rapid accumulation of wear. During your inspection and test drive, you should pay close attention to the suspension performance. The advisory for oil misting on the offside front shock absorber indicates that the internal seals are beginning to weep. Listen for any clunking, knocking, or heavy thudding when driving over uneven surfaces, and observe if the car feels excessively bouncy or lacks stability, which would indicate the damping is failing. Given the history of fractured coil springs, it is also prudent to visually inspect the springs for significant corrosion or signs of structural fatigue, as these components are clearly a known weak point for this vehicle. Furthermore, the 2023 MOT records highlighted concerns regarding tyre perishing and cracking across multiple tyres. Even if the tyres have been replaced since that time, you must carefully inspect the sidewalls of the current set for any signs of dry rot or age-related cracking. Additionally, because the vehicle has a lower annual mileage, check for signs of heavy corrosion on the brake discs from periods of standing and ensure that the service history reflects regular oil and fluid changes based on time intervals rather than just mileage. Verifying the health of the 12V battery and checking for any fluid leaks from various seals is also highly recommended.