2016 Nissan Navara 2.3L Diesel · SL16 DFZ

The latest MOT test for this 2016 Nissan Navara, conducted on 2026-06-15, resulted in a passing grade, though it did not entirely clear the vehicle of advisories and minor defects. The overall maintenance trend over the past decade is neither markedly improving nor worsening, but rather remains consistent with recurring issues that have persisted through multiple tests. The presence of persistent anti-roll bar and suspension ball joint wear advisories—particularly the nearside rear anti-roll bar pin or bush and the offside front shock absorber misting—suggests a pattern of gradual mechanical degradation, though none have yet reached a level that would have failed the vehicle outright. The most recent failures in 2023 and 2025 were primarily non-structural, focusing on seat belt functionality and registration plate lamps, which are less critical but indicate some neglect in secondary systems. This stability in advisories, however, does not absolve the buyer from addressing the more serious suspension and structural concerns that have been flagged repeatedly. The recorded mileage of 95,603 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,560 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class, especially if it has been used for utility or off-road purposes. Lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity, potentially leading to issues like standing corrosion, particularly in the chassis and suspension components, which have been noted in the MOT history. Conversely, higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes, and fluid systems. Given the consistent mileage accumulation, the suspension and anti-roll bar wear advisories are likely a direct result of prolonged use rather than a sudden failure mode, but the gradual misting of the offside rear shock absorbers and the slight play in multiple suspension ball joints warrant closer attention. The wear on tyres—particularly the near and offside rear tyres nearing legal limits—also suggests that the vehicle has been driven at a pace that has contributed to uneven tread wear, which could indicate alignment or camber issues that may require further investigation. For the prospective buyer, this Nissan Navara presents several critical areas to inspect and address before purchase. The suspension system, particularly the anti-roll bars and shock absorbers, should be thoroughly examined for further wear or failure. The nearside rear anti-roll bar pin or bush and the offside front shock absorber misting indicate that the vehicle may experience excessive movement or reduced damping efficiency, leading to clunking noises from the suspension during cornering or bumps, and potentially uneven tyre wear. Listen for a rhythmic clunking or rattling from the rear suspension when driving over uneven surfaces, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could suggest misaligned suspension components. The slight play in the front and rear suspension ball joints may also cause a rough ride or binding when the vehicle is driven, so inspecting for excessive movement or grinding noises during a test drive is essential. Additionally, the structural corrosion advisories suggest that the chassis may be deteriorating, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure. Inspect the undercarriage for rust, especially around wheel arches, exhaust mounts, and the rear subframe, as standing water or poor drainage can accelerate corrosion. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp environment, this could explain the observed rust without any significant mileage accumulation. Beyond the suspension and structural concerns, the tyre wear advisories—particularly the near and offside rear tyres—should be addressed promptly. Tyres worn to the legal limit or showing significant edge wear can compromise handling and traction, especially in wet conditions. Replace these tyres immediately to ensure road safety and prevent further damage to the vehicle’s alignment or suspension. The seat belt failures noted in previous MOTs are non-structural but indicate a lack of maintenance in secondary safety systems. Ensure all seat belts are clean, functional, and properly installed, as dirty or malfunctioning belts can degrade over time and pose a risk in an accident. The registration plate lamp issues are also a minor but necessary fix, as they are a legal requirement for visibility. For fluid systems, given the vehicle’s age and usage, check the condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time, even without significant mileage. A visual inspection of the brake discs for corrosion or binding calipers, which may be causing a grinding or shuddering sensation when braking, is particularly important. Lastly, verify that the service book has been updated, as the vehicle’s age and mileage suggest it may be due for a comprehensive service, including the timing belt and water pump if applicable, to prevent catastrophic failures. If the vehicle has been driven at a lower mileage rate, also check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can indicate prolonged exposure to UV light and heat, and inspect the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, as standing vehicles can drain batteries over time.