2013 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · SC13 WDV

The most recent MOT on 6 August 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. However, the pattern over the last six years shows two major failures – in 2022 and 2025 – both centred on front and rear suspension bushings, ball joints and sub‑frame wear, together with brake service fluctuations and an insecure exhaust. The intervening passes in 2023, 2024 and 2026 suggest that remedial work was carried out after each failure, yet the recurrence of similar suspension‑related items points to a trend of ongoing wear that may not be fully resolved. At 126,578 miles for a 2013 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 9,700 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. There are no obvious large mileage gaps that would hint at prolonged periods of storage, so the wear on consumables is likely to be proportional to normal road use rather than accelerated by long idle periods. Nevertheless, the cumulative distance means that suspension bushings, steering joints and brake components are approaching the end of their design life and should be examined for progressive deterioration. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front and rear suspension assemblies. Inspect the lower and upper arm bushes, ball joints and track‑rod ends for any looseness, oil seepage or cracked rubber, and listen for clunking or knocking when the car is driven over bumps or during hard cornering. Verify that the sub‑frame, especially the front section noted as corroded in the 2025 advisory, is free of rust penetration and that any repair plates are securely fitted. The brake system warrants a thorough check: feel for pedal pulsation or excessive travel that could indicate lingering fluctuation in the service brakes, and examine the discs for uneven wear or surface scoring that might have resulted from the earlier excessive brake fluctuation. The exhaust mounting should be inspected for secure brackets and any rattles that could betray a loose or cracked pipe, as this was a major failure in 2025. Beyond the specific MOT items, the car’s age calls for standard age‑related inspections. Examine all tyres for side‑wall cracking, tread age and any signs of perishing, as rubber degrades even on low‑mileage vehicles. Test the 12‑volt battery for cranking voltage and check for any corrosion on terminals, given the likelihood of long periods between starts. Verify that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals, looking for dark, milky or contaminated fluids that would suggest degradation. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt (or chain) service and any suspension component replacements, as documented evidence of consistent maintenance will be a strong indicator of the vehicle’s long‑term reliability.