2009 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · OY59 RTO

This 2009 Nissan Note presents a rather unusual MOT history that warrants careful consideration. The vehicle has demonstrated an inconsistent testing pattern at the recent end of its record, with a pass and a failure recorded on the exact same date in February 2024, suggesting a minor defect was identified, rectified, and the car immediately re-submitted. This is corroborated by the prior year, where a failure in January 2023 was followed by a pass just two days later, indicating a similar pattern of immediate rectification. While the absolute absence of recorded advisories or defects across all five visible test entries might appear reassuring on the surface, the clustering of failures and subsequent passes within the same testing window raises a question about whether underlying minor issues are being temporarily resolved solely to pass the test rather than being comprehensively addressed. The overall picture is of a vehicle that has historically been kept roadworthy but whose current mechanical narrative is one of borderline compliance. With a recorded mileage of 117,442 miles against an age of approximately 17 years, this Nissan Note has covered roughly 6,900 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. However, the absence of any visible mileage progression data across the recorded MOT tests makes it impossible to verify whether the car has been driven consistently or has experienced significant periods of standing or sporadic use. Mileage gaps or stagnation between tests could indicate extended lay-up periods, which historically can affect braking systems through corrosion, degrade fuel and braking system seals, and stress the 12V battery. Conversely, clusters of high annual mileage in earlier years would place greater demands on suspension components, clutch wear, and exhaust system integrity. Without that chronological data, a physical inspection and a thorough review of the V5C and service history are essential to confirm the mechanical consistency of the vehicle. For a prospective buyer, the clean advisory record on a 17 year old vehicle is uncommon and should be treated with measured scepticism. It is strongly advisable to carry out a pre-purchase inspection with the vehicle raised on a ramp, as corrosion is a primary concern for any Nissan Note of this generation, particularly around the rear wheel arches, sills, suspension mounting points, underbody seams, and brake and fuel lines. The fact that no structural advisories have been flagged in the recorded MOT history does not guarantee their absence today, and visual examination of the underbody is critical. During the test drive, listen carefully for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or top mounts, and pay close attention to any pulling to one side under braking or uneven pedal feel that could suggest seized caliper slides or distorted brake discs. Light, vague steering may point to worn track rod ends or deteriorated front subframe bushings. Given the mileage and age, particular attention should also be paid to the condition of the CV joint gaiters, the exhaust system for corrosion and blowing joints, and any evidence of oil leaks from the engine or transmission. Check that all warning lamps extinguish promptly on ignition and that the air conditioning system functions correctly, as compressor and condenser repairs on older Nissans can be costly. The absence of recorded defects should not replace a comprehensive mechanical inspection; the test drive should include firm braking from higher speeds to check for judder or pull, and the vehicle should be observed from behind to confirm exhaust smoke is not excessive, particularly blue tinge at start-up that could indicate internal engine wear. A compression test or at minimum an oil analysis would provide valuable reassurance given the recorded mileage.