2018 Nissan Micra 0.9L Petrol · SC67 EBJ

The most recent MOT test for this 2018 Nissan Micra, conducted on 2025-12-08, resulted in a pass with two advisories that warrant attention. While this outcome is positive, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring suspension-related issues, particularly with the front suspension arms, anti-roll bar ball joints, and coil springs, which have consistently failed or been flagged as worn or defective across multiple tests. The most severe failures occurred in 2024, where both front suspension arm pins or bushes and the front anti-roll bar ball joint were classified as major defects, indicating significant wear or failure that compromised roadworthiness. These repeated failures suggest a structural or manufacturing issue with the suspension components, or ongoing neglect in addressing earlier advisories, which could escalate into more serious mechanical failures if not rectified promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 54,429 miles over approximately eight years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,804 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the presence of multiple MOT failures—particularly the coil spring fractures in 2023 and the front tyre tread failures in 2024—could imply either higher-than-average wear from aggressive driving or prolonged periods of heavy use, such as towing or frequent stop-and-go traffic. Alternatively, the vehicle may have been subjected to less frequent but more demanding conditions, such as off-road or track use, which accelerate wear on suspension and tyre components. The significant gap between the 2023 and 2024 MOT tests—nearly a year—could also suggest periods of inactivity, during which standing corrosion or fluid degradation might have become more pronounced, further compromising structural integrity. Given the recurring suspension failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, focusing on the following areas: the front suspension arms, anti-roll bar ball joints, and coil springs. Visually inspect the suspension arms for signs of excessive play or detachment, which could indicate the pin or bush has failed or is about to fail, leading to a loss of steering control or uneven ride quality. Listen for clunks or rattles in the front suspension during a test drive, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed, as these can signal worn or broken suspension components. The coil springs should be checked for sagging, bulging, or complete failure, which would manifest as a noticeably lower ride height or a soft, unstable ride. If the anti-roll bar ball joints are compromised, you may feel a lack of lateral stability or hear a grinding noise when cornering sharply. Immediate attention to these issues is critical, as further suspension failure could lead to dangerous handling defects or even vehicle rollover risk. If the buyer opts to proceed with the purchase despite the MOT history, they should arrange a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified independent mechanic to assess the full extent of the suspension damage and any underlying causes. Given the age and mileage, the vehicle’s tyres should also be thoroughly examined for signs of excessive wear, particularly around the edges where the 2025 advisory noted tread wear close to legal limits. Check for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken tyre integrity and reduce safety, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. Additionally, verify the condition of the rear tyres, as the 2021 advisory highlighted deep cracks, which could indicate underlying tyre damage or poor storage conditions. For fluid systems, consider checking the brake fluid level and condition, as standing brake fluid can absorb moisture and degrade over time, leading to corrosion in the brake master cylinder or calipers. Finally, inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, as a 12V battery in a stationary vehicle can suffer from sulfation or reduced capacity, particularly if the car has been unused for prolonged periods. If the suspension issues are confirmed as manufacturing defects rather than user neglect, the buyer may explore whether the manufacturer offers a warranty or recall for the specific model year and component failures.