1997 Nissan Silvia 2.0L Petrol · P790 DUD

A pattern of structural and emission-related failures defines the mechanical record of this 1997 Nissan Silvia, with two failed tests recorded across the available MOT history and one dangerously compromised outcome that warrants careful consideration. The most recent test on 10 April 2026 was a clean pass with no advisories, which on the surface suggests the vehicle is roadworthy, but this must be weighed against the failure on 27 March 2026 just two weeks earlier, where the car was presented with four major exhaust emission defects covering carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon content at both idle and post-fast-idle, alongside an inoperative hazard warning switch and a non-functioning nearside position lamp. The earlier failure on 30 October 2021 is more concerning, as both rear subframe pins or bushes were classified as dangerous and likely to become detached, accompanied by a failed direction indicator, inoperative registration plate lamp, and an exhaust deemed clearly noisier than a standard silencer. The fact that these rear subframe items have not been flagged again in subsequent tests does not conclusively confirm they were correctly rectified, as MOT testing does not re-examine components that have not deteriorated further or been re-presented for retest within the same inspection cycle. The recorded mileage of 85,536 miles across approximately 29 years equates to an average annual accumulation of around 2,950 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and raises questions about long periods of standing rather than consistent light use. The MOT history shows testing gaps between 2020 and 2021 and then no recorded tests between late 2021 and early 2026, suggesting either SORN periods, exemption from testing due to the vehicle's age classification, or extended off-road status. Mechanically, low cumulative mileage with apparent lay-up periods can produce dried-out suspension bushes, seized brake calipers, perished rubber components, flat-spotted or degraded tyres even when tread depth remains adequate, and fluid-seal deterioration throughout the drivetrain. Given that the 2025 test flagged all four tyres as worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge despite the low overall mileage, the pattern is consistent with prolonged standing causing uneven tyre wear or age-related rubber degradation rather than active service use. Any prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the rear subframe mounting area and its bushes, as the 2021 dangerous failure indicates a structural integrity issue at the rear of the vehicle. On a test drive, listen for clonks or shifting noises over bumps from the rear, particularly when cornering or braking, and inspect the subframe bushes for cracking, separation, or movement. Given the 2026 exhaust emission failure covering carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon content, the engine should be started from cold and allowed to idle; any rough running, excessive smoke from the exhaust, hunting idle, or illuminated engine management warning light would suggest the catalyst, lambda sensors, ignition system, or fuelling require attention. During a road test, check for binding or pulling under braking, which may indicate seized calipers from standing, and feel for any knocking or vagueness through the steering that could point to deteriorated suspension components elsewhere not flagged in the MOT record. The 2026 advisories history is otherwise clean, but the tyre wear pattern from 2025 across all four corners should prompt a check of the wheel alignment, suspension geometry, and tyre age, as these are common failure points on low-mileage classics that have stood for extended periods. Verify that the hazard warning switch, all position lamps, direction indicators, and registration plate illumination function correctly before purchase, as these were recent failures in March 2026. Given the vehicle's age and apparent gaps in use, it would also be prudent to inspect for fluid leaks from the engine, gearbox, and differential, check for rust in common areas such as the rear wheel arches, sills, and around the subframe mountings, and confirm the timing belt replacement interval if applicable to this engine variant. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with the S-series chassis would be advisable to identify issues the MOT history does not capture.