2006 Nissan Navara 2.5L Diesel · SC06 ALU

The most recent MOT on 9 March 2022 recorded a pass, albeit with two advisories concerning a worn front propshaft and a missing off‑side side‑repeater cover. Compared with the earlier record, the trend is moving from a series of major failures in 2019 and 2020 to a clean pass in 2022, suggesting that the principal safety‑critical faults have been addressed. Nevertheless, the persistence of the propshaft advisory indicates that a wear item remains unresolved, and the missing repeater cover points to a minor but still non‑compliant component that should be rectified. At 123,234 miles the Navara averages just over 6,000 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of its age. The mileage does not imply excessive wear, but the relatively modest annual distance also hints that the vehicle may have spent extended periods idle. Prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion of chassis members, promote battery sulphation, and allow fluids to degrade even when the engine is not heavily used. The recorded mileage therefore calls for a focus on age‑related deterioration rather than high‑mileage wear. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the front propshaft and its universal joints. Rotate the driveshaft by hand and listen for any clunking or excessive play, and feel for vibration at idle and under load; a worn prop shaft can manifest as a rhythmic shudder at certain speeds. Verify that the off‑side side‑repeater cover is fitted, as its absence can affect the operation of the side‑repeaters and may be symptomatic of loose wiring or corrosion around the lamp cluster. Confirm that the ABS warning lamp remains extinguished after a short drive and that the brake pedal feels firm without pulsation; any lingering ABS fault or brake imbalance, as previously recorded, could reappear if the hydraulic system or calipers have seized. Examine the rear sub‑frame and chassis for rust, especially around the previously noted corroded vehicle‑structure areas, and inspect the fuel tank mounting bolts for signs of movement or leakage. Finally, assess the off‑side front tyre for tread depth and sidewall condition, as the 2020 advisory indicated wear close to the legal limit; uneven wear may reveal mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushings. Beyond the specific items above, conduct a comprehensive age‑related check. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as tyres older than six years can fail even with adequate tread. Test the 12 V battery voltage and, if possible, perform a load test to gauge remaining capacity, since a battery of this vintage is prone to sulphation. Drain and replace the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid if service stamps are absent, because fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Look for any signs of brake‑disc rust or seized calipers, especially after periods of standing, and verify that the suspension bushes and shock absorbers are free of excessive play or leaking oil. A thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for rusted mounts or perforations, and a check that the headlamp aim is correct, will round off a prudent pre‑purchase evaluation.