2005 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · OY55 AFF

The most recent MOT on 17 April 2026 recorded a pass but was accompanied by several advisories and, more critically, a failure for excessive wear on both front anti‑roll‑bar ball joints and excessive play in the off‑side front track‑rod end. This follows a pattern of deteriorating results: in the last three years the car has failed twice for major safety items – a dangerous brake‑pipe leak and sub‑50 % service‑brake and parking‑brake efficiency in 2024, and serious suspension ball‑joint wear in 2022 – with recurring corrosion advisories on brake pipes and suspension mounting points. The overall maintenance trend is therefore clearly worsening rather than stabilising. At 112 717 mi the Micra averages roughly 5 300 mi per annum, which is low for a 21‑year‑old vehicle. Such modest annual usage often indicates periods of infrequent running or extended storage, conditions that accelerate rubber ageing, battery sulphation and corrosion of steel components. The mileage itself does not suggest high wear on power‑train parts, but the low utilisation combined with age means that wear may be uneven, with the suspension and braking systems showing the most pronounced degradation. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering linkage. The anti‑roll‑bar ball joints and the off‑side track‑rod end, flagged as excessively worn, are likely to produce clunking or vague steering feel, especially when cornering or traversing bumps. Inspect the lower‑arm ball joints, front control‑arm bushes and inner‑wing mounting areas for corrosion, cracked rubber and excessive play; any looseness will manifest as steering wander or a noticeable knock under braking. The brake system requires a comprehensive overhaul: the off‑side front brake pipe was recorded as leaking, and both service‑brake and parking‑brake efficiencies were below half the required value in 2024. Verify the condition of all brake hoses, replace any corroded pipework, bleed the system, and check the master cylinder, caliper pistons and parking‑brake mechanism for internal leakage. A full pad and disc inspection is essential, as the MOT notes were unable to confirm pad thickness and corrosion on the pipe suggests possible fluid contamination. Listen for brake shudder or pulsation under firm application, and feel for any pull to one side. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also examine age‑related items that are not captured by the MOT. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as rubber can deteriorate well before tread wear becomes critical. The 12‑volt battery may be approaching the end of its service life; a load test or voltage check after a short idle is advisable. Check for under‑body rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points that have been repeatedly noted as corroded, and ensure the exhaust system is free of perforations or excessive rust that could affect emissions. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, coolant and filter changes; fluids in a car of this vintage should be refreshed at least every 12 months regardless of mileage, as they degrade with time and can lead to internal wear if neglected.