2004 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · MM04 MYY

The most recent DVSA examination on 28 June 2025 resulted in a PASS, although the same test date records a prior FAIL on two presentable items, both relating to insufficient windscreen washer fluid from the nearside and offside front washers, which were subsequently rectified. A Minor defect was also recorded for a damaged front windscreen that did not adversely affect the driver's view. Looking at the broader MOT history from 2019 through 2025, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with a gradually accumulating list of advisories, particularly in the more recent tests. The 2025 pass carried notes concerning front brake discs worn and pitted, front brake pads wearing thin, an oil leak, and corrosion on the offside front coil spring, suggesting that the braking and suspension systems are now entering a phase where component renewal should be anticipated. Earlier passes in 2023 and 2021 were entirely clean, while 2024 and 2022 recorded minor tyre-related advisories, indicating that while the vehicle has not suffered any structural or safety-critical failures, the pattern of recent advisories points to wear progression typical of a car now entering its third decade of service. The recorded mileage of 85,834 miles over approximately 22 years equates to a very modest annual average of around 3,900 miles, which is notably low and suggests either genuinely light use, extended periods of standing, or a combination of both. Such low annual mileage has particular mechanical implications for a vehicle of this age, as prolonged standing can promote corrosion on brake discs and calipers, degradation of rubber components, fluid deterioration, and 12V battery fatigue. The relatively consistent year-on-year MOT dates suggest the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than laid up for extended periods, but the low mileage does place it in the category where time-based degradation of components is often more relevant than wear-based degradation. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing items from the 2025 advisories warrant close physical and dynamic inspection. The front brake discs should be examined for lipping, excessive pitting, and the pads measured for remaining friction material, as the advisory explicitly notes the pads are wearing thin and the discs are pitted both sides; any brake shudder, vibration through the pedal, or squealing under light braking on the test drive would suggest the discs may now require machining or replacement alongside new pads. The offside front coil spring corrosion advisory should be inspected visually for any flaking, section loss, or cracking, particularly at the base coils, as corroded springs can fail suddenly and lead to suspension collapse. An oil leak, even if not deemed excessive, should be traced to its source on inspection, with attention paid to the cam cover gasket, sump, and front crankshaft seal, and the underside checked for fresh drips or accumulated oil residue. Beyond the advisories, the age and low-mileage profile of this Micra demands several time-based checks that may not appear in the MOT record. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on low-mileage vehicles where rubber degrades from age rather than wear, and the production date code on each tyre confirmed, as any tyre over five years old should be regarded with caution regardless of tread depth. The brake caliper sliders and handbrake mechanism should be checked for seizing from infrequent use, as standing calipers can cause uneven pad wear and pulling under braking. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as a 22-year-old original or replacement unit is well beyond typical service life. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid if fitted should be assessed for age and condition, with brake fluid in particular being hygroscopic and due for renewal every two years regardless of mileage. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for corrosion at the mounting points, flexi joint, and rear silencer, and a thorough underside examination conducted for structural corrosion, particularly around the suspension mounting areas, sills, and rear axle, as MOT testing does not require a formal structural assessment on vehicles over a certain age threshold.