2007 Nissan Navara 2.5L Diesel · NA07 TOJ

The most recent MOT test on the 2007 Nissan Navara, conducted on 2026-08-26, resulted in a pass with a single advisory for an oil leak, which is not deemed excessive. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant careful attention. The previous MOT on 2026-08-21 failed due to critical failures including a non-functional windscreen wiper, a leaking brake pipe in the air braking system, an insecure fuel tank, and persistent oil leaks, alongside the same advisory. Earlier failures in 2022-11-02 and 2024-06-13 highlighted further structural and functional concerns such as insecure exhaust systems, corroded brake pipes, and deteriorated suspension components. While the 2025 tests showed some improvement with minor battery and corrosion advisories, the underlying wear and potential fatigue in suspension and drivetrain elements remain a concern, indicating that the vehicle has not consistently met roadworthiness standards. The presence of multiple advisories—particularly those related to oil leaks, suspension stiffness, and brake system integrity—suggests that the vehicle’s maintenance history has been inconsistent, with certain systems showing signs of progressive degradation. The recorded mileage of 141,782 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 19 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,462 miles, which is relatively typical for a vehicle of this age and class. This usage profile does not suggest excessive wear from high-mileage accumulation, but it also does not indicate light or infrequent use, which could have mitigated certain wear patterns. The absence of significant mileage gaps between tests suggests that the vehicle has been in regular service, though the combination of moderate mileage with recurring MOT failures points to underlying mechanical issues that are not solely attributable to wear from driving. The suspension and drivetrain components, in particular, appear to be under stress, with multiple failures linked to suspension arm fractures, stiff brake load sensing valves, and deteriorated CV joints and ball joints. This suggests that the vehicle’s suspension geometry and load distribution may be compromised, potentially leading to uneven tyre wear, handling instability, or premature component failure if not addressed. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension system, brake components, and fluid integrity. Focus on the rear leaf springs, which failed in 2024-06-13 and have likely been compromised further; look for signs of excessive play, binding, or physical damage when the vehicle is lifted or driven over bumps. Listen for abnormal suspension noises such as clunks, rattles, or excessive bouncing, which may indicate worn or failed suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged control arms. The brake system should be thoroughly inspected, including the discs, pads, and calipers for signs of binding, corrosion, or uneven wear. Check for brake shudder during deceleration, which could signal warped discs or pulsating calipers, and verify that the brake hoses and pipes are free of leaks or corrosion. The oil leak advisories suggest that the engine oil retention is compromised, potentially due to worn piston rings, valve seals, or a failing oil filter housing gasket. Inspect the oil filter area and check for oil contamination in the coolant or transmission fluid, as this may indicate internal engine wear or a failing water pump. Beyond mechanical checks, the buyer should prioritise fluid servicing based on the vehicle’s age and usage. Given the 19-year history, the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should be replaced, as these fluids degrade over time and can accelerate component failure. The coolant should be flushed and replaced with a fresh, corrosion-inhibited mixture, and the brake fluid should be bled to remove moisture and contaminants, which can lead to brake system corrosion or failure. The transmission fluid should be checked for contamination and replaced if necessary, particularly if the vehicle exhibits rough shifting or delayed engagement. The battery should be tested for voltage and physical integrity, as the minor battery insecurity advisories suggest it may be loose or failing, which could lead to power loss or electrical system malfunctions. Finally, the tyre condition should be scrutinised, with particular attention to sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles due to ozone exposure and prolonged storage. Check for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate suspension or alignment issues, and ensure the tyre pressure is within manufacturer specifications to maintain handling and fuel efficiency. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or structural integrity, as the previous insecure exhaust failures highlight a recurring vulnerability.