2004 Nissan Primera 1.8L Petrol · ML04 DXD

The most recent DVSA test on 6 May 2022 recorded a clean pass with no defects noted, indicating that the major faults flagged three days earlier – excessive play in the off‑side front track‑rod end, a missing dust cover on the near‑side front suspension arm ball joint and insufficient parking‑brake efficiency – have apparently been remedied. Over the preceding six years the record shows a mix of minor advisories and a single major failure in 2022, suggesting a generally improving trend provided the corrective work was of good quality, though the recurrence of front‑suspension ball‑joint play in earlier advisories hints that the underlying wear may still be present. At 122,879 mi the car averages roughly 5,600 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 mi annually. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity rather than gentle driving, which can be as detrimental as high mileage. Age‑related degradation of rubber components, seals and bushings can occur even with few miles, and prolonged standing can promote corrosion on the chassis, exhaust system and brake hardware. The modest mileage does, however, mean that wear items such as the engine’s internal components are likely to have endured less mechanical stress than on a high‑mile counterpart. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. Verify that the track‑rod ends, ball joints and anti‑roll‑bar linkages are free of play by rocking the wheels at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions and listening for clunks or metallic noises during a low‑speed test‑drive, especially when turning both left and right. Inspect the dust covers and rubber boots for cracks or leaks, and check that the steering feels tight with no wandering. The parking brake must hold the vehicle on a slight incline; any slippage could indicate worn shoes or a failing adjuster. Rear‑left brake disc wear was previously noted as pitted, so a visual inspection for scoring and a measurement of disc thickness are advisable, and the brake pads should be examined for uneven wear that could betray a sticking caliper. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also assess age‑related items irrespective of mileage. Examine all tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry‑rot or uneven wear patterns that may have developed while the car sat idle; even if tread depth appears adequate, rubber can become brittle after a decade. Test every external light – headlamps, indicators, registration‑plate lamp and rear‑light clusters – to ensure full functionality, as past failures suggest possible wiring or bulb issues. Look for any signs of exhaust leakage around the rear pipe and check for corrosion on the under‑body and mounting points. Finally, have the 12 V battery load‑tested, verify that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid are fresh (fluids degrade over time even without use), and confirm that the service booklet shows regular oil changes and any timing‑belt or chain interventions appropriate for a 2004 model. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance it may require.