2012 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · V5 DGV

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift from clean records to emerging mechanical wear. While the most recent test in December 2025 at 20,821 miles passed, it introduced multiple advisories that were absent in previous years. The appearance of a nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint with play, alongside perishing across all four tyres, indicates that components are reaching the end of their service life despite the low mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging only 1,487 miles per year. The data shows consistent usage between 17,518 miles in 2021 and 20,821 miles in late 2025. However, this low usage explains the specific degradation of rubber components. The tyre cracking and perishing noted in both 2024 and 2025 are indicative of tyres that have sat for long periods rather than being worn down through frequent driving. A buyer must inspect the front suspension geometry specifically, as the ball joint play has been flagged in two consecutive tests without rectification. This component requires immediate attention to prevent unexpected steering instability or uneven tyre wear. The tester also identified perishing on all tyres, suggesting a full set of new rubber is required due to age-related dry rot regardless of tread depth. Given the low annual mileage, a physical inspection should also check for seized brake calipers or degraded fluid hoses, which often occur when vehicles are driven infrequently. The lack of recorded defects between 2021 and 2023 suggests the structural integrity remains sound, but the recent advisories signal that the vehicle is now entering a period requiring proactive mechanical maintenance.