2008 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · OY08 PYA

This 2008 Nissan Note presents a broadly reassuring mechanical picture at first glance, having recorded two consecutive clean passes at its most recent MOT tests in October 2025 and October 2024 with no advisories or defects recorded on either occasion. However, looking back through the history reveals a recurring theme of front suspension and front brake component wear that has been flagged consistently across multiple test cycles. The 2023 test in particular drew attention to worn lower rear bushes on the front suspension arms alongside play in the offside front lower arm ball joint, while the 2022 and 2021 tests both noted pitting and scoring on the front brake discs. The fact that these issues have not reappeared in the two most recent tests suggests they were either rectified at the time or have not yet progressed to an advisory level, but given the mileage involved they warrant close physical inspection before purchase. With 158,618 miles accumulated over approximately 18 years of service, the vehicle is averaging around 8,800 miles annually, which sits squarely within the typical usage band for a car of this age and segment. There are no unusual gaps in the MOT testing record to suggest extended periods off the road, and the mileage progression between tests appears steady and consistent rather than displaying any sudden jumps or stagnation. That said, a high-mileage supermini of this vintage will inevitably be approaching the natural wear-out point for many consumable and chassis components, particularly those relating to the suspension, steering and braking systems, all of which have already featured in the advisory history. An annual accumulation of this magnitude over nearly two decades places meaningful demand on engine internal components, transmission mountings and exhaust system integrity, even where no specific defects have yet been recorded. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension assembly during any physical inspection. The advisories from 2023 specifically identified wear in the lower rear bushes of both front suspension arms and play in the offside front lower ball joint, so it is worth asking for evidence that these were replaced. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps, potholes or undulating surfaces, and feel for any vagueness or wandering in the steering, particularly under braking or when cornering. With the front wheels elevated, manually check for vertical and horizontal play in the front wheel bearings, examine the condition of the anti-roll bar drop links and wishbone bushes, and pay close attention to any perishing or splitting in the visible rubber components. Stiffness or seizing in the suspension travel would suggest the coil springs or strut assemblies themselves may now be due for attention. The brake system deserves equally careful scrutiny given the recurring disc wear advisories from 2021 and 2022. Although these were not flagged at the most recent test, the front discs may have been machined or replaced in the interim, so confirm the current thickness against the manufacturer's minimum specification and check for any lipping or scoring around the outer edge. On the road, test the brakes firmly from speed to check for any pulling to one side, vibration through the steering wheel or pedal, which would indicate disc warp, and listen for any grinding or scraping sounds that might suggest worn pads contacting scored metal. The 2022 test also recorded an oil leak that was not deemed excessive, so a thorough under-bonnet inspection for fresh oil residue around the engine and sump area is worthwhile, with particular attention to the valve cover gasket, camshaft seals and any oil residue accumulating on the exhaust manifold. Finally, while the test history shows no corrosion advisories to date, an 18-year-old car is increasingly susceptible to structural rust, so a careful inspection of the wheel arches, sills, subframe and suspension mounting points is essential, ideally with the vehicle raised on a ramp.