2012 Nissan Navara 2.5L Diesel · M20 YOG

The latest MOT test for this 2012 Nissan Navara was conducted on 2025-01-17 and resulted in a clean pass, with no defects recorded. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring advisories related to the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, which were flagged in both 2023-02-09 and 2024-02-14. These advisories indicate the presence of slight play in both the offside and near-side ball joints, a condition that, while not immediately failing the vehicle’s roadworthiness, suggests progressive wear and potential long-term susceptibility to failure. The fact that these issues persisted through two consecutive MOTs without being addressed implies either inadequate maintenance or a lack of awareness of the severity of the wear. This trend should prompt the buyer to prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension components, as ball joint failure can lead to steering instability, uneven tyre wear, and increased risk of accidents, particularly at higher speeds or during cornering. The recorded mileage of 104,179 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents an average annual usage rate of around 7,441 miles, which is within the expected range for a diesel Navara of this age. However, the absence of a significant gap between the 2022-01-06 MOT and the 2023-02-09 MOT—just under 13 months—suggests either consistent usage or a period of higher mileage accumulation, which could accelerate wear on critical components like the suspension, drivetrain, and exhaust system. While 104,179 miles is not exceptionally high for a 14-year-old vehicle, the recurring advisories on the anti-roll bar ball joints may have been exacerbated by this usage pattern, particularly if the vehicle was driven in conditions that stress the suspension, such as rough roads or frequent stops and starts. The buyer should also consider whether the vehicle has been stored in a damp or corrosive environment, as prolonged standing can lead to additional wear on components like brake discs, calipers, and suspension bushes. Given the recurring advisories on the front anti-roll bar ball joints, the prospective buyer should conduct a detailed inspection of the suspension system during the purchase process. Focus on the ball joints themselves, checking for signs of excessive play or wear—this can be confirmed by gently applying lateral force to the steering wheel while the vehicle is on a flat surface and noting any noticeable movement or clunking noises, especially at low speeds or when braking. Additionally, inspect the anti-roll bar linkages for any signs of corrosion or excessive stretch, as these can also contribute to the play observed in the MOT records. Listen for suspension clunks during the test drive, particularly when driving over bumps or at higher speeds, as these noises may indicate worn suspension components or misaligned wheels. If the ball joints are confirmed to have significant play, the buyer should budget for immediate replacement, as this is a critical safety issue that should not be overlooked. For the rest of the vehicle, the buyer should perform a comprehensive physical inspection tailored to the vehicle’s age and usage profile. Given the mileage and age, pay particular attention to the tyre condition, checking for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur due to prolonged exposure to UV light and age-related degradation. Ensure the tyres have sufficient tread depth and are evenly worn, as uneven wear patterns may indicate suspension or alignment issues that were not fully addressed in the MOT history. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, particularly on the near-side where the MOT advisories were noted, as standing in damp conditions can accelerate corrosion. Check the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion on terminals, and consider testing its charge capacity, as older vehicles may suffer from reduced battery life due to parasitic drains or internal degradation. Finally, verify that the service history includes time-based fluid servicing, such as the oil change interval (typically every 60,000–100,000 miles for a diesel Navara) and the replacement of fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid, as these can degrade over time even if the vehicle is not driven extensively. If the service book is incomplete, the buyer should request records or schedule a professional inspection to ensure all time-sensitive maintenance has been completed.