2012 Nissan Note 1.4L Petrol · WJ12 RWK

The most recent MOT record from March 2022 shows a pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the minimum legal requirements for roadworthiness at that time. However, as the current date is September 2026, there is a significant gap in the official testing history. This lack of recent data makes it impossible to determine if the maintenance trend is stable or if there has been a recent decline in the condition of consumable components. While a clean MOT is a positive starting point, the absence of recent advisories means we have no insight into the current state of wear on critical items such as suspension bushings, brake linings, or exhaust systems, necessitating a very thorough physical inspection. The recorded mileage of 96,810 miles over a 14-year period equates to an average of approximately 6,915 miles per year. This is a relatively low annual usage rate, which typically suggests less wear on the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain compared to high-mileage vehicles. However, lower annual mileage can sometimes be a double-edged sword; if the vehicle has been used primarily for short, infrequent trips, there is an increased risk of carbon buildup within the engine or moisture accumulation in the lubrication systems. You should verify that the service history reflects regular oil changes to mitigate these risks and ensure the engine has not suffered from sludge accumulation. Given the sparse MOT history and the age of the vehicle, your inspection should prioritise age-related degradation over high-mileage wear. Closely examine the tyres for any signs of perishing or sidewall cracking, as rubber can degrade due to age even if the tread depth remains high. During the test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking from the suspension, which could indicate worn bushes or perished coil springs, and check the brake discs for heavy corrosion or pitting. You should also be alert to any brake shudder or pulling to one side, which may suggest binding calipers or uneven pad wear resulting from periods of standing. Finally, ensure that all essential fluids have been changed according to a calendar-based schedule rather than strictly by mileage, as brake fluid and coolant can lose their effectiveness over time regardless of distance travelled. Check the 12V battery for any signs of terminal corrosion and ensure the vehicle starts reliably. It is also essential to cross-reference the physical condition of the vehicle with the service book stamps to confirm that the maintenance has been consistent. This approach will help identify any neglected maintenance that a clean but infrequent MOT history might otherwise obscure.