2005 Nissan Almera 1.5L Petrol · MA05 AAO

A consistent pattern of pass results with no recorded defects at the 2023, 2025, and 2026 tests demonstrates that this 2005 Nissan Almera has retained its basic roadworthiness without significant testable deterioration over recent cycles. The earliest test in the record, dated March 2022, included a Minor failure item concerning the nearside front inner drive shaft joint constant velocity boot, which was recorded as severely deteriorated with a slight leak, alongside an advisory noting seepage from the offside front power steering rack gaiter. No further action was taken on either item at subsequent tests, with the most recent examination in March 2026 recording no defects or advisories at all, indicating that no fresh deterioration of those previously noted areas was identified by the tester. Recorded mileage of 87,059 miles across approximately 21 years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 4,150 miles, a notably low figure for a vehicle of this age. There are no gaps in the testing history between 2022 and 2026, and no recorded odometer readings are available to verify whether mileage progression was steady or whether the vehicle experienced extended periods of inactivity. Such a low annual average can reflect light overall use, but it also raises the possibility of longer standing periods between journeys, which typically accelerates deterioration of rubber components, drive belts, and braking surfaces through lack of regular use. The constant velocity boot deterioration flagged in 2022 is a known weak point on vehicles of this era, and although no further advisories have appeared on this component, a prospective buyer should inspect the condition of both inner and outer CV boots for splits, perished rubber, or fresh grease deposits around the joints. Any clicking or knocking sensation during tight manoeuvres, particularly on full lock, would suggest that the previously deteriorated boot has now allowed joint contamination. The power steering seepage noted from the offside front rack gaiter should also be examined visually for fresh fluid around the steering rack housing and the gaiter itself, with attention paid during a test drive for any increase in steering effort, whining from the pump on full lock application, or uneven assistance between left and right turns that could indicate progressive seal failure within the rack. Given the vehicle's age and the rubber and sealing components historically associated with this model, a thorough inspection should also be carried out on the suspension bushes, anti-roll bar linkages, and front coil springs for perishing or cracking, areas not specifically recorded in the MOT history but typical candidates for deterioration on a 21 year old vehicle. On a test drive, listen for clonking over uneven surfaces, which can indicate worn front suspension components, and feel for any vagueness in steering response or pulling to one side under braking. The brakes should be checked for firm pedal feel without excessive travel, as low annual mileage combined with age frequently results in corrosion at the disc surfaces, which can manifest as pedal judder or vibration under heavy braking. Finally, given the low usage profile, verifying that the timing chain, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid have been changed at appropriate intervals would be advisable, as standing periods do not arrest the natural degradation of these service items.