2014 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · SH14 ADV

The most recent DVSA examination on 19 June 2026 resulted in a Pass, although the test carried four advisories that warrant careful consideration by any prospective purchaser. The advisory relating to front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear has now appeared in two consecutive tests, indicating a progressive deterioration rather than a one-off observation. Similarly, the front brake disc pitting and scoring advisory has been noted on three successive annual tests, suggesting the discs are subject to ongoing surface degradation. A nail in the nearside rear tyre and perishing damage to the same tyre were also flagged at this latest test. Taken in conjunction with the Major failure items recorded on 24 June 2025, the maintenance trend over the past two years is clearly worsening, with escalating concerns around front suspension components, rear brake function, and brake disc condition. With a recorded mileage of 46,955 against a 2014 manufacture date, this Micra averages approximately 3,913 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of its age. The MOT history suggests the car has been used intermittently rather than as a primary daily driver, and the mileage accumulation between tests appears modest. Low annual mileage of this nature frequently masks mechanical wear from extended standing periods, particularly corrosion-related deterioration to underbody components, brake caliper seizure from lack of regular use, and time-based degradation of oils and coolants. The mileage should therefore not be interpreted as evidence of low wear. A recurring theme across the MOT history is rust and corrosion to suspension components, brake pipes, and rear coil springs, with advisories recorded at virtually every test since 2021. The 2025 failure citing excessively worn anti-roll bar ball joints on both sides, combined with the 2023 advisory regarding binding rear and offside front service brakes that progressed to Major failure status in 2025, indicates a clear pattern of mechanical decline. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, feel for pulling to one side under braking, and check for a stiff or handbrake that does not release cleanly, all of which could indicate worn bushes, seized caliper slides, or further anti-roll bar wear. The pitting and scoring of the front brake discs, recorded on three consecutive tests, suggests the discs may soon require replacement, and any brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel during light braking should be regarded as a likely symptom. Additional buyer inspection points should focus on items particularly affected by age and low usage. The advisory regarding a porous sump pan from 2025 warrants a thorough underbody examination for fresh oil seepage, as porous cast aluminium deteriorates progressively. Tyres should be closely inspected for sidewall cracking and perishing regardless of tread depth, given the recorded rear tyre damage and the vehicle's age. The 12V battery is likely original or near-original given the low mileage and should be load tested, as batteries that have sat partially discharged suffer reduced寿命. Brake fluid, coolant, and gear oil should be regarded as overdue for renewal based on calendar age, and the service book should be checked for evidence of regular annual servicing despite low mileage. Finally, a careful check of all underbody brake pipes, particularly at the rear, is essential, as the persistent advisories regarding corroded rear brake lines suggest they may be approaching the point of replacement.