2004 Nissan Almera 1.8L Petrol · ML54 CWM

The most recent MOT test on the 2004 Nissan Almera occurred on 2025-11-26, where it initially passed but subsequently failed the same day due to a non-functional offside front stop lamp and the persistent offside front tyre damage advisory. The preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of stability with only minor advisories over the past five years, aside from the tyre-related issues and the occasional brake bind or parking brake adjustment, which suggest routine wear rather than systemic failure. The vehicle’s MOT performance does not indicate a worsening trend, though the tyre advisories and brake bind require attention to prevent further degradation or safety concerns. The recorded mileage of 40,695 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents an annual usage rate of around 1,850 miles, which is notably lower than would be expected for a car of this age under typical UK driving conditions. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of storage, or a vehicle kept in a less active role, which may contribute to wear patterns that differ from those seen on higher-mileage examples. However, prolonged idleness can accelerate issues such as brake corrosion, suspension stiffness from standing, and fluid degradation due to lack of circulation, so careful inspection of these systems is essential. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to examine are the front tyres, particularly the offside front tyre, which has been flagged in multiple MOTs for damage and wear near the legal limit. Inspect the tyre for signs of lateral cuts, bulges, or uneven wear patterns that could indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues. On a test drive, listen for clunks or rattles from the front suspension, which may suggest worn suspension bushes or coil spring damage contributing to the tyre wear. Additionally, the near-side front tyre advisories from previous MOTs suggest significant edge wear, which could be due to improper alignment or excessive steering angle use. Check for brake bind on the near-side rear brake, which may indicate corrosion on the brake discs or calipers, leading to uneven braking force or a spongy pedal feel. Beyond the MOT advisories, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, focus on the following checks: inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and compromise safety, especially if the vehicle has been stored without regular use. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, reducing reliability when needed. Check the parking brake mechanism for excessive play or binding, which could indicate a worn cable or lever mechanism that may require servicing. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider a comprehensive fluid check—particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time due to moisture absorption and loss of effectiveness—along with the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, also inspect the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, as standing can accelerate rust formation on metal components.