2014 Nissan Juke 1.6L Petrol · SL63 FHS

The most recent DVSA examination on 23 September 2025 was a pass with no defects recorded, however this followed an earlier failure on the same date which identified several major items including a non-functioning nearside rear stop lamp, an ineffective nearside windscreen wiper, misaligned nearside windscreen washer jets, and a fractured offside rear coil spring. While the immediate pass is reassuring, the fact that four major defects were present at the same test suggests the vehicle may have undergone last-minute remedial work to achieve the pass certificate, and a prospective buyer should be mindful that the underlying condition of these systems should be physically verified rather than assumed sound. Looking at the wider pattern across 2021 to 2025, there is a clear and persistent cluster of front suspension and steering defects, with repeated advisories and failures relating to track rod end ball joints and suspension arm ball joints on both nearside and offside positions. The presence of a Dangerous category defect in September 2024 for an offside front suspension arm ball joint likely to become detached is particularly significant, as this represents a failure mode with serious safety implications, and the recurrence of related advisories in the 2025 pass suggests that the suspension and steering components may be in an ongoing state of marginal wear requiring close attention. With a recorded mileage of 67,532 miles spread over approximately twelve years, this Nissan's average annual usage is around 5,600 miles, which is well below the national average for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often indicates a pattern of short journeys and extended periods of standing, both of which carry their own mechanical consequences. Irregular use can lead to flat spots in tyres, brake disc corrosion and potential caliper binding from inactivity, premature 12V battery failure, and degradation of fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil due to calendar ageing rather than mileage accumulation. Additionally, condensation within the engine and a lack of sustained operating temperatures can accelerate internal corrosion, particularly of the timing chain, turbocharger components, and exhaust system, all of which are relevant considerations on the turbocharged 1.2 DIG-T or 1.5 dCi variants commonly fitted to this model. Given the recurring track rod end and suspension arm ball joint advisories spanning multiple test cycles, a thorough pre-purchase inspection should focus on the front suspension and steering geometry. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front wheels over speed humps and rough surfaces, which would indicate worn ball joints or droplink bushes, and pay attention to any vagueness in the steering, uneven tyre wear across the front axle, or tracking pull to one side under braking. Inspect the condition of the rear coil springs for any signs of corrosion, sagging, or fracture, particularly on the offside, and check that all four tyres are of matching age and specification, as the 2023 advisories on both front tyres being worn close to the legal limit suggests previous owners may have been slow to replace consumables. Beyond the documented MOT items, a vehicle of this age and low usage profile warrants careful physical checks for standing-related deterioration. Examine all tyres closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, which is common on low-mileage cars of twelve years and can render tyres unsafe even with legal tread depth. Test the 12V battery under load, as prolonged standing and short journeys frequently leave batteries in a weakened state, and verify the service history to confirm that engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid have been replaced on a time-based schedule rather than solely by mileage intervals. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion or lipping around the outer edges, and check that the calipers are releasing fully without binding. Finally, examine the underside of the vehicle, including the subframe, wishbones, and rear suspension components, for any surface corrosion or perished rubber bushes consistent with a vehicle that has spent considerable time parked on damp surfaces, and ensure that the timing chain, turbo system, and clutch operation feel smooth and responsive during a thorough road test.