2012 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · SA12 CWN

A clean DVSA record across the most recent testing cycle marks this 2012 Nissan Micra as a mechanically consistent and roadworthy small hatchback. The vehicle passed its test on 5 March 2026 with no advisories or defects recorded, continuing an unbroken run of clean passes that stretches back to at least early 2023. The same date also shows a failure entry with no defects recorded, which indicates an administrative re-test rather than a mechanical rectification, and the immediate subsequent pass confirms the car returned to the road in sound condition. There are no recurring advisories for suspension components, brake lines, exhaust corrosion, or structural integrity, and no historic failures relating to lighting, tyres, or braking efficiency. The overall trend is one of stable roadworthiness rather than deterioration, which for a 14 year old Micra is a reassuring baseline. Recorded mileage of 52,075 miles against a 2012 manufacture date works out at roughly 3,720 miles per year, which is notably below the typical annual accumulation for a car of this age and class. Annual mileage at this level is often consistent with short urban trips, light shopping use, or a second car in a multi-vehicle household, rather than regular commuting or motorway work. The MOT history shows the car being tested annually since at least 2023 without any extended gaps, suggesting it has been kept on the road consistently rather than left standing for long periods. Lower annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain and suspension components, but it can accelerate age-related deterioration in items such as rubber boots, brake caliper slides, and underfloor protection, so the usage profile is broadly favourable but still warrants targeted inspection. Given the absence of any recorded advisories on the test history, specific component checks should focus on the areas that commonly affect Micras of this generation as they reach their mid-teens, particularly the front suspension and rear brake assemblies. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front wheels over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn strut top mounts, droplinks, or anti-roll bar bushes; vague wandering at the front end can point to tie rod or rack wear. At the rear, check for a binding or dragging handbrake and any pulling under light braking, as the rear drum mechanisms are prone to seizing on low-use cars. Visually inspect the inner and outer edges of the front brake discs for a heavy lip and any surface scoring, and confirm the discs run true without judder through the pedal under firm stops. Given the low annual mileage, also pay particular attention to age-related failures that may not yet have surfaced on an MOT but are likely developing behind the scenes. Examine the underbody, particularly the rear subframe mounting points, inner wheel arches, and sill lower sections, for any emerging surface corrosion or underseal bubbling. Check all coolant and heater hoses for hardness or cracking, and inspect the drive belts for any glazing or fraying. Start the car from cold and watch for excessive smoke from the exhaust, any cooling system pressurisation, or an illuminated engine management warning. With no recorded defects to chase, this Micra represents a sound starting point, and any test drive symptoms in the areas above can be assessed against what is otherwise an unblemished MOT history.