2012 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · MJ61 KFP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but exhibits a worsening trend regarding front-end suspension and steering components. While it passed the March 2026 test at 72,594 miles, the tester identified multiple significant defects that were not previously noted. The presence of severely deteriorated front anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers and suspension arm ball joint dust covers on both sides, alongside play in the steering rack inner joints, indicates that the front-end assembly is reaching the end of its functional life and requires attention. At 14 years old, the recorded mileage of 72,594 represents a low annual average of approximately 5,185 miles. This low usage suggests the vehicle sits frequently, which often leads to the degradation of rubber components and seals regardless of mechanical wear. The data shows a gap between the January 2023 test at 53,025 miles and the February 2024 test at 54,677 miles, where the car covered only 1,600 miles in a year, followed by a more consistent increase in mileage leading to the most recent tests. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension to assess the extent of the play in the steering rack. The deterioration of the ball joint dust covers suggests moisture ingress has occurred, which will rapidly seize or fail the joints if not addressed. The oil leak flagged in the March 2026 test also requires monitoring to determine if it is a minor seep or a failing gasket seal. Given the history of worn front tyres reaching the legal limit as recently as 2025, another check of the tyre tread depth and wear patterns is necessary to ensure they have not degraded since the last advisory.