2004 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · OE04 YRY

This Nissan Micra’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite passing tests, with the most recent test on 2023-05-16—nearly three years ago—indicating the vehicle has not been subject to a formal roadworthiness assessment since. The absence of any recorded defects on passing tests is unusual, as even minor issues are typically flagged, suggesting either a lenient tester or a vehicle that has managed to avoid obvious failures through deferred maintenance. The double failure on the same day in 2023-05-16 is particularly notable, as it implies a critical fault was overlooked or misdiagnosed initially, yet the vehicle was still deemed passable. This inconsistency raises questions about the reliability of the MOT process for this vehicle and highlights the need for a thorough independent inspection. The recorded mileage of 86,616 miles over 22 years equates to an average of approximately 3,937 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The MOT records span only two years (2022–2023) with no intermediate tests, meaning there are no data points to confirm whether the vehicle was driven at all between tests or stood idle for extended periods. Such low mileage can mask significant wear, particularly in components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers, which degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. The lack of recent mileage updates also makes it impossible to verify whether the vehicle has undergone any servicing or repairs outside the MOT cycle. Given the repeated failures and the age of the vehicle, a buyer should prioritise an inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and bushes, as these are common failure points in older Micras. The double failure in 2023 suggests a recurring issue, possibly with binding brakes or worn suspension components that were not addressed. Corrosion in the wheel arches, subframe, or sills should also be examined closely, as this is a critical structural risk for vehicles of this age. The brakes, including calipers, pads, and discs, warrant immediate attention, as repeated failures often indicate neglect rather than mechanical failure. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive rust, as these are frequently overlooked but can compromise both performance and safety.