2018 Nissan Navara 2.3L Diesel · PE68 VWA

The 2018 Nissan Navara’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-03 resulted in a clean pass, yet it carried two persistent advisories concerning the near-side and off-side front brake discs, each described as worn, pitted, or scored but not to a point that compromises structural integrity or safety. This pattern of recurring advisories—reported in both the 2024 and 2025 tests—indicates a consistent, though not urgent, wear issue across the brake discs, suggesting either prolonged high-speed operation, aggressive braking habits, or a design characteristic that accelerates disc erosion. The absence of failures in prior years, coupled with the lack of any other critical defects, implies that the maintenance trend remains stable rather than deteriorating, though the owner should be mindful of the gradual progression of this wear. The 2023 MOT, by contrast, was entirely free of advisories, which may suggest a brief period of reduced usage or a temporary respite in the disc wear cycle. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 59,202 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,400 miles per year, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a model of this age. Given its eight-year age, this mileage is neither exceptionally low nor alarmingly high, but it does not preclude the possibility of either lighter use or more intensive driving, both of which can influence component wear. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT history suggests consistent ownership, though the slight acceleration in mileage accumulation—particularly if recent years have seen higher usage—could accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements. For instance, the recurring brake disc advisories may reflect either sustained braking demands or a design where discs wear more uniformly under certain conditions, warranting closer attention to brake system performance. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed examination of the braking system, focusing on the front brake discs for signs of uneven wear, excessive heat discoloration, or potential warping that could indicate underlying issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual brake noise, such as grinding or squeaking, and monitor for reduced stopping distance or a spongy or pulsating pedal, which could signal worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. The buyer should also verify the condition of the rear tyres, as the 2022 MOT advisory on low tyre depth suggests ongoing monitoring is necessary, especially if the vehicle has accumulated additional miles since then. Check for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements—minimum 1.6mm across the central 77% of the tyre’s circumference. Beyond the brakes, the buyer should inspect the suspension for signs of wear, particularly the front coil springs and suspension bushes, which may exhibit clunking or rattling when driving over bumps, or visible signs of cracking and leakage. The vehicle’s standing corrosion risk is elevated due to its age, so examine the undercarriage, wheel arches, and body panels for rust, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and the front and rear subframes. A fresh inspection of the 12V battery and starter motor is advisable, as prolonged periods of disuse can lead to battery degradation or corrosion, which may not be evident in a short test drive. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age, the owner should consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids, such as the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, which can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Check for service book stamps or receipts to confirm adherence to manufacturer-recommended intervals, and verify the condition of the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, which could indicate catalytic converter or manifold wear. Finally, a visual and functional check of the exhaust emissions system is prudent, as older vehicles may require a more thorough inspection for compliance with current emissions standards, particularly if the vehicle has been driven extensively.