2013 Nissan Pathfinder 2.5L Diesel · VA13 DZT

The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder passed its most recent MOT on 29 August 2025 at 128,471 miles, but the maintenance trend is one of gradual front-end wear rather than a clean bill of health. The tester flagged slight play in both front lower suspension arm ball joints, a recurring theme that has migrated through the anti-roll bar linkages over previous years. While none of these advisories constitute an immediate failure, the pattern suggests the front suspension consumables are approaching the end of their service life and will require attention in the near term. The vehicle has covered roughly 9,882 miles per year since new, which is typical for its age and use case. Mileage accumulation has been steady, with no dramatic gaps or sudden spikes that would indicate long periods of disuse or unusually hard use. The record shows consistent annual testing from 2021 through 2025, and the odometer readings align logically with each test date, giving confidence that the mileage history is genuine and not subject to clocking concerns. A buyer should focus the in-person inspection on the front suspension and steering components. The repeated advisories for ball joint play across the lower suspension arms and anti-roll bar linkages point to cumulative wear in these pivot points. Check for clunking over uneven surfaces and uneven tyre wear patterns that would confirm deterioration. The 2023 test also flagged a minor exhaust gas leak at the front flexi pipe and a defective rear exhaust rubber mount, so the underside of the exhaust system deserves close scrutiny for corrosion and gas leaks, particularly given the vehicle's age and mileage. Beyond the flagged items, inspect the subframe, inner wing arches, and sill areas for corrosion, as this generation of Pathfinder is known to suffer from structural rust in the rear load-bearing areas. The 2024 tester noted the underside was becoming difficult to inspect due to contamination, which itself is a warning sign that underseal may be degrading or that the vehicle has been used in harsh conditions without adequate protection. A thorough inspection with the vehicle on a ramp is strongly recommended before purchase.