2004 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · LV54 BYT

The 1.24-litre petrol Micra is one of the more economical small cars of the period, typically returning around 45-50 mpg on a combined cycle according to manufacturer figures, though real-world economy on a 21-year-old vehicle is likely closer to 38-42 mpg. Road tax for this pre-2006 vehicle sits in the cheaper bracket at around £180 per year, though it is worth noting this will remain relatively low regardless of CO2 band due to its age. Insurance should fall into group 5 or lower, making it one of the cheapest cars to insure on the UK market.

Routine maintenance on a Micra of this age is generally affordable, with parts widely available and inexpensive due to the model's popularity. Typical annual servicing (oil change, filters, plugs) should come in at £150-£250 at an independent garage. However, the advisories on suspension bushes, tyres and headlamps suggest you should budget an additional £200-£400 in the near term for replacement items if they have not already been addressed. Estimated annual running cost is £800-£1,000 including fuel, tax, insurance and routine maintenance.

Priority one should be a close inspection of the front suspension components, particularly the rear bushes of the front suspension arms, which have been flagged at three separate MOT tests from 2022 onwards. With the vehicle raised on a ramp, check for any cracking, splitting, or excessive movement in these bushes, and inspect the condition of the anti-roll bar drop links and ball joints which are common Micra weak points. A bouncy or unsettled ride over bumps, or any knocking from the front end, would suggest the bushes have deteriorated beyond advisory stage.

Next, inspect the front headlamp units for both lens condition and beam alignment — the headlamp aim was too high at the 2023 failure, which suggests either adjustment has drifted or the suspension is sitting lower than designed. The lens discolouration has been noted repeatedly, but a quick polish with a headlamp restoration kit may be sufficient. Check the windscreen wiper mechanism and confirm both blades clear the screen effectively, as this was a failure item in 2023. Finally, examine the underside of the engine and around the sump for any fresh oil residue that would indicate the previously noted leak is worsening, and verify coolant and oil levels are correct and clean.