2018 Nissan Micra 1.5L Diesel · SW68 EVU

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 13 December 2025, resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, which is the most encouraging outcome available to a prospective buyer at this stage. However, this result must be viewed in the context of the immediately preceding test on 8 December 2025, which the vehicle failed with two major defects and one dangerous defect relating to the suspension. The presence of a fractured offside rear lower coil spring, a fractured nearside rear lower coil spring, and an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush indicates a significant deterioration in the front and rear suspension assemblies within a five-day window. While the subsequent pass suggests remedial repair work has been carried out, the cluster of failures points to a vehicle that had been allowed to develop substantial wear in its suspension components. A similar pattern was observed in the December 2024 test, where the vehicle initially failed on a nearside front lower suspension arm pin or bush defect before passing on the same day with no defects recorded. Taken together, the MOT history demonstrates a recurring issue with suspension components, particularly bushes and coil springs, which suggests either prolonged use on degraded components or repeat failures in the same mechanical areas. The maintenance trend cannot be described as stable or improving; rather, it shows intermittent but repeated suspension-related concerns that have ultimately been addressed, at least at the point of the most recent test. With 60,086 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Nissan is accruing mileage at a rate of roughly 7,511 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no dramatic gaps in usage evident from the available MOT data, and the mileage progression between annual tests appears consistent with regular driving. This level of use is generally favourable from a mechanical standpoint, as it avoids the worst pitfalls of either extreme; the vehicle has been exercised sufficiently to keep internal components lubricated, the battery maintained, and seals active, yet it has not been subjected to the elevated wear associated with very high annual mileages. For a 2018 Nissan Micra, the recorded odometer reading is entirely commensurate with normal private or light commercial use, and the mechanical implications are largely aligned with routine consumption of service items rather than premature component failure. Given the recurring suspension defects recorded across the 2024 and 2025 MOT tests, particular attention should be paid to the integrity of the front and rear suspension assemblies during any pre-purchase inspection. The fractured rear coil springs and worn front suspension arm pins or bushes are wear-prone items that can develop progressively without obvious symptoms until they reach MOT failure thresholds. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, speed bumps, or during heavy braking, as these are common audible indicators of worn bushes or deteriorating ball joints. Uneven or accelerated tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, may also suggest compromised suspension geometry stemming from worn trailing arm or wishbone bushes. The vehicle should be observed at rest to check for any obvious sagging at the rear, and the rear arches inspected for adequate clearance between the coil spring and the body. If the defective components have only recently been replaced, it remains important to verify the quality and provenance of those repairs, as budget aftermarket components may not offer the same longevity as original equipment. Insist upon documentation confirming the rectification work undertaken between the December 2025 failure and pass, and consider an independent inspection of the suspension to confirm the integrity of the replacement parts. Beyond the specific suspension concerns, this eight-year-old Micra warrants general age-related inspection regardless of its MOT outcome. Tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for cracking, perishing, or ozone damage, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age even where tread depth remains adequate, and the current tyres should be confirmed to be no older than five or six years by checking the DOT date code stamped on the sidewall. The 12-volt battery is likely approaching the end of its typical service life and should be load-tested, particularly as cooler mornings approach. Brake discs should be inspected for corrosion pitting or lipping, and the calipers should be confirmed to be sliding freely without binding, given the moderate annual mileage which can allow brake components to seize from underuse in colder months. Fluid services should be reviewed against calendar time rather than mileage alone; engine oil and filter changes, brake fluid renewal (typically every two years), coolant replacement, and manual gearbox oil inspection should all be verified in the service history regardless of the odometer reading. Finally, given the Nissan Micra's known susceptibility to minor oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and the ageing of underbonnet rubber components, a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay for any seepage or staining is advisable before purchase.