2017 Nissan Micra 0.9L Petrol · OU67 WDZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 September 2025 resulted in an overall pass, but it is worth noting that the vehicle failed earlier on the same date due to both headlamp aim defects being recorded as dangerous, before presumably being rectified and re-presented for the pass certificate. The current advisory regarding a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge has been carried forward from the failure notice and indicates that replacement is imminent. Looking at the broader trajectory, the MOT history reveals a pattern of gradually escalating wear-related issues; while the 2020 and 2023 tests were entirely clean and the 2024 pass carried no advisories, the intervening years have surfaced recurring concerns around front brake pads, front suspension arm bushes, and edge tyre wear. The 2024 failure for excessively worn suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides is the most significant item, as this affects directional stability and tyre wear characteristics, and the fact that this passed at the same test station shortly after suggests the components were renewed. The overall trend is therefore one of a vehicle entering a phase where consumables and suspension items are beginning to demand closer monitoring, rather than a deteriorating mechanical picture. The recorded mileage of 68,915 miles over approximately nine years equates to an average of 7,657 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a Nissan Micra of this generation and suggests the vehicle has been driven regularly rather than left standing for prolonged periods. There are no significant unexplained gaps in the recorded mileages between successive MOT tests, with annual increments broadly consistent with the average figure, indicating no periods of inactivity that would promote severe corrosion or fluid degradation. This steady usage pattern is mechanically favourable, as regular running tends to keep seals, brakes, and the drivetrain in healthier working condition compared with low-mileage or stored examples. The mileage is sufficient to have warranted at least one set of front brake pads, a tyre replacement cycle, and the suspension work referenced in the 2024 advisory, all of which are consistent with normal service intervals for a supermini of this age. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension arm bushes that were replaced in 2024 should be the subject of close physical inspection, as these components are particularly susceptible to premature wear in this model and any clonking, knocking, or imprecise steering response over uneven road surfaces could suggest either incorrect fitting, inferior quality replacement bushes, or related wear in adjacent components such as anti-roll bar links, drop links, or wishbone ball joints. On a test drive, pay particular attention to steering feedback; any vagueness, wandering, or uneven tyre tread across the front axle would warrant further investigation into the geometry and the condition of the rubber components. Given the recurring advisories for edge tyre wear on both front and rear axles across multiple tests, it is advisable to inspect the current tyres for uneven shoulder wear, which may point to persistent alignment issues, worn suspension bushes, or simply a pattern of enthusiastic cornering combined with hard, low-profile sidewalls. The headlamp aim defect recorded in September 2025 should be verified by a simple visual check on level ground to confirm both dipped beam patterns sit at or below the horizontal, as incorrectly aimed headlamps not only fail an MOT but also pose a glare hazard to oncoming traffic. Beyond the recorded defects, a nine-year-old Micra with average mileage warrants a methodical age-appropriate inspection covering items that do not always appear on MOT records. The 12-volt battery is likely approaching the end of its useful service life and should be load-tested, particularly as flat or weak batteries are a common cause of starting and electronic gremlins in vehicles of this vintage. Brake discs, particularly the front pair, should be examined for lipping and corrosion, as even regular use on a supermini can produce surface corrosion that leads to brake shudder or pedal pulsation under hard application. All fluid services should be verified, including engine oil and filter changes, coolant renewal, brake fluid replacement, and the condition of the manual or automated manual transmission fluid where fitted; brake fluid is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture, so a fluid older than the recommended service period can lead to a spongy pedal and reduced braking efficiency. Finally, check the exhaust system for corrosion at the joints and mounting rubbers, examine the underside for any fresh signs of fluid leakage or corrosion on structural components, and ensure the service book contains stamps at appropriate intervals to confirm the recorded mileage is supported by documented maintenance history.