2014 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · ML64 RVC

The latest MOT test for the 2014 Nissan Micra was conducted on 2026-03-25, resulting in a passing grade. While the vehicle has not faced a failure since March 2024, the presence of multiple recurring advisories and minor defects suggests a pattern of wear and potential maintenance needs that require attention. Notably, the near-side front suspension arm ball joint exhibited slight play, and the rear coil spring showed signs of corrosion, indicating ongoing mechanical stress on these components. The previous failed MOT in March 2024 highlighted critical issues such as under-inflated or worn tyres on the near-side front and off-side rear, along with defective windscreen wiper blades and a failing rear registration plate lamp, which collectively point to a need for proactive servicing rather than reactive repairs. The overall maintenance trend appears stable but should be monitored closely, as the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage have exposed several wear-related concerns. The recorded mileage of 85,155 miles for a 12-year-old Nissan Micra represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,096 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. This usage profile suggests a combination of regular driving and periods of inactivity, which can influence wear patterns. Lower mileage might indicate lighter use or extended periods of standing, potentially exacerbating issues such as corrosion from moisture exposure, particularly in the suspension and exhaust systems, while higher mileage could accelerate wear on consumables like tyres, brake pads, and drivetrain seals. The vehicle’s history does not show extreme mileage spikes, but the consistent presence of wear advisories—such as tyre edge wear and suspension ball joint play—implies that the suspension and steering components have been subjected to cumulative stress over time, warranting a thorough inspection of these systems. Given the vehicle’s MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the suspension and steering components, as the ball joint issues and coil spring corrosion are recurring concerns. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the suspension, particularly around the front and rear corners, which may indicate loose or worn ball joints or failing coil springs. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as the edge wear advisories suggest potential misalignment or camber issues, which could be exacerbated by suspension wear. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive vibration, as the previous emissions failure highlighted potential exhaust gas leaks that could impact performance and emissions compliance. Ensure the headlamps are correctly aimed and that the registration plate lamp functions properly, as these were major failures in past tests. For a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection, focus on the tyre condition, both for legal compliance and structural integrity. The presence of sidewall cracking or perishing on the near-side rear tyre, as noted in the 2024 MOT, indicates that the tyre may be nearing the end of its serviceable life, even if the tread depth is still above the legal minimum. Check the tyre pressures and tread depth on all tyres, and consider replacing any tyres that show signs of excessive wear or damage. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding, particularly on the front discs and calipers, as prolonged standing can lead to rust buildup or seized components. Verify the fluid levels and condition of the brake, coolant, and power steering fluids, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, which for many vehicles in this age range is every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two years. Lastly, examine the battery terminals and overall health of the 12V battery, as older vehicles are more susceptible to weak or failing batteries, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. A thorough service history check would also be beneficial to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, has been conducted at the recommended intervals.