2012 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · SA12 DZP

A clear pattern of corrosion-related advisories on the suspension and underbody components defines the mechanical profile of this 2012 Nissan Micra, despite the vehicle having passed its most recent test on 27 March 2026. The 2026 pass was accompanied by advisories on all four coil springs and all four shock absorbers, indicating that the corrosion flagged at earlier tests has progressed across the full suspension arrangement rather than remaining isolated. Earlier tests show a similar theme: the 2025 test recorded corroded front coil springs, corroded front subframe, corroded rear axle, worn front brake discs, and a worn offside front lower suspension arm rear bush, while 2022 advisories noted coil spring corrosion on both rear springs and the offside front. Two failures are also on file, the first in February 2022 for a binding nearside rear service brake, and the second in March 2024 for inoperative registration plate lamps and an excessively worn nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. Taken together, the record points to an older vehicle in which structural and suspension corrosion is now widespread, with additional wear accumulating on steering and braking components. The recorded mileage of 100,275 miles over approximately fourteen years equates to an annual accumulation of around 7,162 miles, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a car of this age. Annual MOT tests have been conducted consistently since at least February 2021, with no apparent gaps in testing that would suggest extended periods off the road. The mileage between recorded tests is therefore steady rather than erratic, indicating regular if modest use. This level of use is sufficient to keep mechanical consumables working but does not prevent age-related deterioration of rubber bushes, brake components, and underbody metal, which is consistent with the corrosion advisories accumulating year on year. For a prospective buyer, the suspension and underbody condition is the primary concern. The advisories on all four coil springs and all four shock absorbers at the 2026 test suggest that the original rubber gaitors and spring coatings are now degraded, and a careful inspection of all four corners from underneath is warranted. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over uneven road surfaces, which would indicate that the corroded springs are failing to maintain proper damping or that the worn suspension arm bush flagged in 2025 has progressed. Pay particular attention to steering response, as the 2024 failure noted an excessively worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, and similar wear may now be present on other linkage components. Any vagueness in turn-in response, knocking from the front end during direction changes, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle would reinforce these concerns. The braking system also warrants close attention, given the binding rear brake that caused the 2022 failure and the worn and pitted front brake discs recorded in 2025. On a test drive, check for any pulling to one side under braking, which would suggest a caliper issue similar to the earlier failure, and listen for any grinding or scraping from the front discs, as pitted discs will worsen with further use. The 2026 advisory for an oil leak that is not yet excessive should be monitored; check the underside of the engine and the area around the sump and cam cover for fresh oil accumulation, and observe smoke from the exhaust on startup. Finally, the corroded front subframe and rear axle flagged in 2025 should be inspected closely with the vehicle on a ramp, as further progression could move these components from advisory status into serious structural weakness at a future test.