2009 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · MA59 CLV

A consistently clean MOT history defines this 2009 Nissan Micra, with five consecutive passes spanning from September 2021 through to the most recent test on 18 September 2025, none of which recorded any advisories, defects, or failures. This represents an unbroken run of roadworthiness over the documented period, with no recurring wear patterns, structural corrosion advisories, or component deterioration flagged by DVSA testers. For a vehicle of this age, such a defect-free record is notable and points to a car that has either been used gently, stored carefully, or maintained proactively, though the absence of advisories also means the MOT history alone offers no specific insight into the current condition of consumable items such as tyres, brakes, or exhaust components. The recorded mileage of 17,905 miles across seventeen years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 1,053 miles, which is exceptionally low and well below the typical 7,000 to 10,000 miles per year expected of a regular commuter vehicle. This usage profile suggests the Micra has spent considerable time either stationary or used only for short, infrequent journeys. Mechanically, such low mileage and likely extended periods of inactivity carry specific implications: rubber seals, gaskets, and flexible hoses can dry out and perish; brake calipers and rear drum mechanisms may bind or seize due to surface corrosion; the clutch and gearbox synchros may have minimal wear but could exhibit stiffness from lack of use; and the ageing 1.2 or 1.4 petrol engine, while likely sound internally, may suffer from oil leaks from hardened gaskets, degraded cambelt tensioner operation if the timing belt has not been replaced on schedule, and potential exhaust system corrosion at mounting points and the rear silencer box where moisture collects during cold starts. For a prospective buyer, the absence of advisories means there are no specific components from the MOT record to target, but the low-mileage context demands a focused inspection of items that suffer disproportionately when a car is used sparingly. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonks, knocks, or rattles from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, paying particular attention to the lower wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and the front strut top mount bearings, all of which can deteriorate through age rather than mileage on a lightly used car. Check that the steering feels precise without excess free play or any vagueness around the straight-ahead position, which could indicate worn rack mountings or deteriorated track rod ends. Apply the brakes firmly from around 30 mph and verify the pedal feels solid without excessive travel, sponginess, or any juddering vibration through the pedal that would suggest warped front discs or binding calipers, the latter being a common issue on cars that have stood idle. Also inspect the rear brake drums if accessible for surface rust and confirm the handbrake holds firmly on an incline, as cables and mechanisms can seize when rarely actuated. Given that this Micra has passed every MOT without comment yet is over seventeen years old, particular attention should be paid to areas not fully covered by the standard test, including the condition of the coolant and brake fluid, the integrity of the fuel lines and underfloor brake pipes for any surface corrosion, and the state of the exhaust system from the manifold gasket through to the rear box, as exhaust components are particularly vulnerable to internal corrosion on low-mileage vehicles that complete predominantly short journeys. Confirm the service history documentation, specifically that the timing belt and water pump have been replaced in line with Nissan's recommended interval, as a neglected timing belt on the CR12DE or CR14DE engine will result in catastrophic engine failure. Finally, verify that all electrical functions operate correctly, that there are no warning lights illuminated on the dashboard after the engine reaches operating temperature, and that the clutch bite point is consistent and smooth, as hydraulic clutches on idle cars occasionally develop master or slave cylinder issues that would not necessarily be flagged during an MOT inspection.