2012 Nissan Juke 1.6L Petrol · SD12 CPX

The most recent DVSA test on 9 October 2025 resulted in a pass, the only comment being an advisory that the rear axle shows corrosion. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a series of failures in 2022 and 2023 – notably worn rear brake discs, deteriorating ball‑joint components and tyre damage – to passing tests in 2024 and 2025, albeit with recurring advisories. This pattern indicates that the owner has addressed the most critical safety failures, but that underlying wear on suspension joints, brake hardware and the chassis remains a concern and is being monitored rather than fully resolved. At 69,942 mi the Juke averages just under 5,000 mi per annum, which is well below the typical UK usage of roughly 8‑12 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age. The low annual mileage suggests periods of light use or extended storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because components such as rubber seals, hoses and tyre sidewalls age with time regardless of distance travelled. Prolonged standing can also promote corrosion on steel members, as hinted by the rear‑axle advisory, and may lead to brake‑disc surface rust or caliper sticking if the car has sat idle for long stretches. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear axle and any signs of corrosion on the sub‑frame, looking for rust flaking, pitting or wet spots around mounting points. On a test drive listen for clunks or creaks when applying torque, especially under acceleration or when negotiating bumps, which could indicate deteriorating rear‑axle bushings or compromised welds. The front‑suspension ball joints were flagged as excessively worn in 2023 and the front‑arm dust cover was noted as missing in 2022; inspect the ball‑joint boots for cracks, grease leakage and any play when the wheel is rocked at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions. The rear brake discs have been repeatedly described as worn, pitted or scored but not yet weakened – verify disc surface condition visually and feel for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, and confirm that the pads retain at least 3 mm thickness. The tyres have a history of sidewall cracking and perishing; examine all four tyres for dry rot, cracks in the sidewalls, uneven wear patterns and ensure the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm, remembering that age‑related degradation can occur even on low‑kilometre tyres. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, time‑based maintenance is essential. Check the 12 V battery for sulphation and verify it holds charge, as batteries left idle for years often fail. Inspect all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour, level and any signs of moisture ingress; brake fluid should be replaced at least every two years regardless of mileage. Examine the exhaust system for rust or cracks, especially around the manifold and rear pipe, and confirm that the rear‑axle corrosion has not progressed to affect mounting points. Finally, ensure the rear child‑seat installation does not obstruct the adult seat‑belt path and that the windscreen wipers clear the glass effectively, as a major fault was recorded in 2023. Addressing these items now will give a clear picture of the Juke’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a fully reliable condition.