2011 Nissan Navara 2.5L Diesel · SC60 CWW

The most recent MOT test for this 2011 Nissan Navara was conducted on 2026-09-01, though no defects were recorded at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that have not been fully resolved, indicating a need for proactive maintenance rather than a stable or improving condition. The vehicle failed MOTs in 2021 and 2020, with major failures including fractured coil springs, corroded suspension mounts, and severely deteriorated constant velocity joint boots—defects that suggest underlying wear progression in the suspension and drivetrain systems. While the 2022 MOTs were clean, the presence of advisories from previous years—such as excessive play in front track rod end ball joints and worn suspension bushes—demonstrates persistent mechanical stress. The combination of these findings points to a vehicle that has experienced significant wear over its operational life, particularly in critical areas like the suspension and drivetrain components, which require immediate attention to prevent further deterioration or safety risks. The recorded mileage of 162,497 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 15 years represents an average annual usage of around 10,833 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage data alone does not fully explain the severity of the mechanical issues observed in the MOT history. The vehicle appears to have accumulated wear at a rate consistent with moderate to heavy use, particularly given the failures related to suspension components and drivetrain joints. The presence of standing periods—evident from the repeated MOT failures—can exacerbate corrosion in suspension mounts and fluid degradation in components like brakes and fluids, as standing vehicles are more prone to corrosion and stale lubricants. While the mileage does not suggest rapid wear, the combination of high mileage and structural/functional failures indicates that the vehicle has been subjected to significant mechanical stress over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect immediately are the suspension system and drivetrain components, given the recurring MOT failures. The fractured coil spring and corroded leaf spring mounts from previous MOTs indicate that the rear suspension is critically compromised, with potential risks of further structural failure or uneven ride quality. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, as this may indicate loose or failing components. Inspect the rear suspension mounts visually for signs of cracking or detachment from the chassis, and check for uneven ride height or excessive play in the rear axle. The constant velocity joint boots, which failed in 2021, should be thoroughly examined for leaks or excessive wear, as a compromised boot can lead to drivetrain fluid contamination and premature failure of the joint itself. Listen for unusual noises from the front driveshaft, such as whining or grinding, which could signal a failing joint or boot. Additionally, the advisories regarding stop lamps and tyre wear must be addressed. The non-functional stop lamps and corroded rear windscreen washer system are not safety-critical but should be repaired to meet legal requirements. The tyre advisories from 2020 indicate that the offside rear tyre was worn close to the legal limit, suggesting uneven wear patterns that could be caused by suspension misalignment or excessive camber. On a test drive, check for uneven tyre wear, particularly on the edges of the tread, and inspect for any signs of hydroplaning resistance or poor grip. The central upper stop lamps failing in multiple MOTs should be replaced to avoid potential fines and ensure compliance with legal standards. Beyond mechanical checks, consider a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s fluids, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time, especially with prolonged standing. Check for signs of fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the front and rear suspension components, and verify that the brake system is functioning correctly by testing the pedal feel and listening for squeaking or grinding brakes. Finally, examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, especially given the vehicle’s age. A comprehensive service history check, including the last oil change and brake fluid flush, should also be verified to ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations.