2008 Nissan Elgrand 3.5L Petrol · VT57 DXG

The most recent MOT on 18 February 2026 resulted in a failure, the first recorded failure in the vehicle’s history, and it highlighted a major defect on the near‑side front outer anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint together with advisory items on the opposite side ball joint and the front brake disc. Earlier tests in 2025 and 2024 passed without comment, so the trend has shifted from a period of apparent stability to a clear deterioration that now requires immediate remedial work before the car can be legally driven. At 133,704 miles the 2008 Nissan Elgrand averages just over 7,400 miles per year, a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal range for a vehicle of its age. The mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme short‑term abuse, but the cumulative distance does mean that wear items such as suspension bushings, ball joints, brake rotors and engine components will be approaching the latter stages of their service life. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would indicate long periods of storage, so the wear is likely to be consistent with steady, moderate use. The primary concern is the excessively worn near‑side front outer anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint. This component links the anti‑roll bar to the suspension and, when worn, will produce a distinct clunk or knock when the vehicle is driven over bumps or during cornering, and may lead to reduced roll control and uneven tyre wear. The slight play on the off‑side ball joint suggests that both sides are nearing the end of their service interval and should be replaced as a set. The advisory on the front brake disc indicates surface scoring and pitting; while not yet a safety‑critical failure, it can cause brake shudder, reduced braking efficiency and increased dust on the wheels. A thorough inspection should include checking for any looseness in the anti‑roll bar mounts, measuring ball‑joint clearance, and examining the brake rotors for depth and run‑out. If the ball joints are replaced, a wheel alignment is mandatory to prevent premature tyre wear. Given the car’s age, a comprehensive visual and tactile inspection is advisable even beyond the MOT items. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, and verify tread depth is even. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and confirm it holds charge, especially if the vehicle has spent time idle. Look for corrosion on suspension mounting points, chassis brackets and exhaust hangers, and ensure the steering rack boots are intact. Verify that the service book shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes, and consider a fresh change of engine oil, brake fluid and coolant if the last recorded service predates the last two years. Checking the condition of the drive‑shaft universal joints, rear axle bearings and the condition of the timing chain or belt (if applicable) will also help to avoid unexpected failures in a vehicle that has logged over 130 000 miles.