2018 Nissan Micra 1.5L Diesel · NJ18 YRA

The 1.5 dCi diesel Micra typically returns around 55-65 mpg in real-world driving, making it one of the more economical small cars on the market. Road tax sits in a low bracket for a sub-100g/km diesel of this era, though exact VED rates depend on the specific RDE2 compliance status. Insurance should fall into group 10-13 for this model, keeping premiums modest for most drivers. The diesel engine is generally robust but timing chain and turbocharger condition should be checked given the mileage.

Typical annual maintenance for a Micra of this age and mileage is relatively low, with routine servicing in the £150-£250 range at independent garages. The biggest variable cost on this particular vehicle will be suspension and brake work, given the MOT history — a coil spring replacement on its own is typically £150-£250 per side including labour at an independent garage, plus brake discs and pads around £200-£300 for the front axle. Assuming average mileage of 5,500 miles per year, fuel economy around 60 mpg, modest insurance and tax, and allowing for some suspension or brake spend, total annual running costs should land in the region of £900-£1,200.

The fractured nearside rear coil spring recorded at the May 2025 MOT failure is the headline item to inspect. Even if it was replaced before the subsequent pass, ask to see the invoice and check the offside rear spring for any sign of similar fatigue, as these parts tend to fail around the same time. While the car is on a ramp or over a pit, inspect the front shock absorbers for oil leakage — the nearside front unit was already showing light oil misting in 2023 and could have deteriorated since. The front brake discs should be measured for remaining thickness, as they were flagged as worn (though not excessively) at the 2023 test, and the pads should have at least 3-4mm of friction material remaining.

Tyre condition is worth scrutinising closely given that three tyres were flagged as close to the legal limit in 2023 and one was showing damage and perishing. Uneven or rapid tyre wear on a Micra typically points to worn suspension bushes, tracking misalignment or weak springs. Check all four tyres for brand, age (look at the DOT date code on the sidewall) and tread depth, and budget for a fresh set if any are over five years old or below 3mm. Finally, given the diesel powertrain, ask for evidence of recent cambelt or timing chain service and check the turbocharger and intercooler hoses for splits or oil contamination — the dCi engine is generally reliable but expensive to repair if neglected.