2018 Nissan Micra 0.9L Petrol · LS68 OPC

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Nissan Micra was conducted on 2025-09-26, resulting in a passing outcome with a single advisory noted for a near-side rear tyre nail. This follows a pattern of fluctuating results over the past five years, with two major failures in 2024 related to excessive wear in the front lower suspension arms, indicating a critical issue that required attention. The earlier 2023 failure highlighted severe tyre damage, including a dangerous tear on the near-side front tyre and significant wear approaching legal limits, alongside rear tyre perishing and cracking. While the vehicle has passed subsequent tests since, the recurring advisories and past failures suggest underlying wear and tear that demands careful scrutiny, particularly in the suspension and tyre systems, which may have been partially addressed but remain at risk of re-emerging with continued use. The recorded mileage of 42,156 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a relatively low annual mileage of approximately 5,270 miles per year, which is notably below the average for its class. Such a low usage rate could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion on components like brake discs, calipers, and suspension linkages, which can become bound or seize over time. Conversely, if the vehicle has been driven less frequently, consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may not have degraded as rapidly as one might expect from higher mileage. However, the suspension failures and tyre advisories from previous MOTs suggest that even with lower mileage, wear in these systems can still progress if not serviced promptly, particularly in the lower suspension arms and front tyres where structural integrity is compromised. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front suspension arms, which failed MOT in 2024 with excessive wear. Visually check for any signs of swelling, cracks, or separation in the bushings or pins, and listen for unusual clunking or rattling when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at higher speeds. The front tyres, particularly the near-side, show a history of significant wear and a previous dangerous tear, so tread depth must be verified with a gauge, and the tyre’s sidewall for cracks or bulges. The rear tyre with a nail advisory should also be closely examined for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension misalignment. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age and potential standing periods, inspect the brake system for corrosion on discs and calipers, which may cause binding or reduced braking performance. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as standing fluid can degrade over time, leading to moisture contamination and potential hydraulic failure. Beyond mechanical checks, the Nissan Micra’s age and low mileage profile necessitate attention to several time-based and usage-related items. First, the tyres should be checked for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can weaken the structure and lead to sudden failure, especially if they have been stored for extended periods. Ensure the tyre pressure is correct and that the tread depth meets legal requirements, as the previous MOT advisories indicate wear approaching limits. The battery should be tested for health, as prolonged inactivity can cause internal degradation or terminal corrosion, which may result in poor starting performance or electrical system failures. Fluid servicing is also critical; check the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant levels, as well as their condition, particularly for signs of contamination or sludge buildup, which can indicate prolonged neglect. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, corrosion, or structural damage is advisable, as emissions-related failures can recur if the system has not been maintained. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that all scheduled maintenance—such as timing belt replacement (if applicable), spark plugs, and suspension component replacements—has been recorded, as this will provide confidence in the vehicle’s long-term reliability.