2000 Nissan Micra 1.0L Petrol · V35 DGC

The 2000 Nissan Micra’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-10 confirms a passing status at 64,457 miles, though with a persistent minor exhaust leak and no further critical failures. The trend over the past two years is unstable, with a failure in February 2026 after a clean pass in March 2025. The February 2026 failure reveals severe brake imbalance across both axles, including a non-functioning offside rear brake, alongside recurring exhaust issues. This suggests either deferred maintenance or intermittent mechanical neglect, particularly in the braking system and exhaust components. The March 2023 test further highlights a deteriorating driveshaft CV joint boot and perishing tyres, indicating long-term wear that was not fully addressed before the 2024 and 2025 tests. The recorded mileage of 64,457 miles over 26 years averages approximately 2,479 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests—particularly the 10-month interval between the 2025 and 2026 MOTs—implies periods of inactivity or very light use, which may mask underlying issues. The absence of mileage between the 2023 and 2024 tests (a 12-month gap) further suggests the vehicle was not regularly driven, potentially allowing corrosion or component degradation to progress unchecked. This pattern raises concerns about whether critical wear has been monitored or repaired during off-peak periods. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the braking system, focusing on the rear axle imbalance and the offside brake’s non-functionality from the February 2026 failure. The 2023 record of a binding near-side front brake and the deteriorated CV joint boot warrant closer examination of the suspension and drivetrain components, including bushings, coil springs, and wheel bearings. The recurring exhaust leak, present in both the 2023 and 2026 tests, signals potential corrosion or failure in the catalytic converter or downstream piping, which should be visually inspected for rust or structural weakness. Tyre condition remains a concern, despite passing tests, as the 2023 mention of perishing tread suggests imminent failure if not recently replaced. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounts, should also be assessed for corrosion, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage history.