2008 Nissan Note 1.6L Petrol · PL08 CYP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 4 November 2024, was passed but returned three advisories concerning front‑near‑side suspension arm bush wear and slight wear on the rear axle swivel pins on both sides. Earlier tests show a consistent pattern of minor wear advisories, particularly the near‑side front anti‑roll bar ball joint, which has been flagged repeatedly since March 2023. The vehicle suffered a major failure in March 2023 when the off‑side front coil spring fractured; that component would have been replaced to achieve a subsequent pass. Overall the maintenance trend is stable – the car continues to pass its MOT, but the recurrence of suspension‑related advisories indicates gradual wear that is not yet critical but should be monitored. At 104,884 miles on an 18‑year‑old Nissan Note the average annual mileage works out to roughly 5,800 miles per year, well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 miles per annum. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage in terms of rubber ageing, fluid degradation and corrosion. The relatively low mileage does not preclude age‑related wear on bushings, seals and electronic components, so the vehicle’s condition must be judged on both calendar and mileage factors. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the front suspension assembly. Verify that the fractured coil spring has been correctly fitted and that the front anti‑roll bar ball joint shows no perceptible play when the steering wheel is rocked at full lock – any clunk or excessive movement could indicate impending failure of the joint or its bushings. Examine the front sub‑frame pins and the rear axle swivel pins for signs of looseness, metal flaking or leaking grease; worn pins often manifest as a knocking noise when navigating bumps or during hard cornering. Check the brake discs for uneven wear patterns or surface scoring that could cause shudder under heavy braking, and confirm that the registration plate lamp functions correctly. On a road‑test, listen for rattles from the front corners, feel for any wandering or vague steering feel, and note whether the ride height is consistent on both sides. Given the car’s age, also assess items that deteriorate with time rather than mileage. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or tread separation, especially if the tyres are older than six years regardless of tread depth. Look for corrosion on the wheel arches, under‑body panels and exhaust system, which can be exacerbated by long periods of standing. Test the 12 V battery’s voltage and cranking performance, and consider a load test as the electrolyte may have degraded. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended service intervals – fluids can become contaminated or lose effectiveness simply with age. If the suspension bushings and pins are in good condition, the brakes are sound and the time‑based items are fresh, the vehicle should be roadworthy, though budgeting for a full suspension inspection and possible bush replacement in the near future would be prudent.