2006 Nissan Note 1.5L Diesel · OU06 KLC

A clean and remarkably consistent MOT record defines this twenty-year-old Nissan Note, which has passed every annual test since at least 2023 with no advisories or defects recorded against it. The most recent outcome on 8 August 2025 confirms this pattern, although the simultaneous failure entry on the same date suggests a minor retest situation that was resolved the same day, a common administrative occurrence rather than a sign of underlying mechanical concern. Across three consecutive passes spanning 2023, 2024 and 2025, the vehicle has demonstrated reliable roadworthiness at its age and mileage bracket, with no recorded brake, suspension, corrosion, exhaust or lighting issues to indicate any chronic wear pattern. This kind of unbroken advisory-free record is unusual for a car approaching end-of-life for many original components, and it points to either diligent maintenance or, more commonly, that the vehicle has not yet reached the mileage thresholds or age-related corrosion points where typical defects begin to surface. Mileage accumulation on this Note is entirely proportionate to its twenty-year lifespan, with 127,213 recorded miles translating to roughly 6,361 miles annually. This sits comfortably within the typical usage band for a small family MPV of its era, meaning the engine, transmission and drivetrain have worked at a steady, moderate pace rather than enduring the punishment of high-mileage motorway use or suffering the problems associated with long periods of standing. There are no significant gaps in testing history that would suggest extended off-road storage, and the smooth progression of annual tests implies continuous, regular use. Mechanically, this usage profile is beneficial for a Nissan Note because it keeps seals lubricated, prevents moisture accumulation in the exhaust and brake systems, and avoids the flat-spotting and corrosion that plague intermittently used vehicles. For a prospective buyer, the absence of any recorded advisories makes specific component targeting difficult, but the age and mileage of this vehicle still warrant focused inspection on the items most likely to be approaching wear-out at this stage. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, as the front lower control arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links and front coil springs are known wear points on the first-generation Note and would not necessarily have been flagged unless severely deteriorated. The rear torsion beam bushings and shock absorber mounts are also worth checking visually for cracking or sagging. Pay particular attention to the brake pedal feel, watching for excessive travel, sponginess or pulling to one side under firm braking, as binding calipers and worn front discs become common beyond 100,000 miles on this platform. Given the MOT record is advisory-free, particular attention should also be paid to areas that visual testing does not always expose, such as fluid leaks and exhaust integrity. Inspect the engine bay and undertray for any signs of oil weeping from the cam chain area or valve cover gasket, and check the exhaust manifold and downpipe joints for staining or corrosion, as the Note's exhaust hangers and flexi sections are known to fail with age regardless of MOT outcome. Lift the boot carpets and check the spare wheel well for dampness, which can indicate rear light cluster sealing failure, a common issue on this model. Finally, inspect the underside of the vehicle on a ramp if possible, paying close attention to the rear wheel arches, subframe mounting points, and brake and fuel pipe runs for any surface corrosion that may have been deemed acceptable at test but warrants closer scrutiny at twenty years old.