2015 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · WN15 LPY

The most recent MOT test for the 2015 Nissan Micra was conducted on 2025-11-25 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a significant improvement from the previous test on 2025-11-24, which failed due to major defects in both near-side and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes being excessively worn. This marks a notable turnaround, as the vehicle had previously demonstrated recurring advisories and minor failures in suspension components, particularly the front lower suspension arms, which were either worn to the point of excessive movement or nearing failure by the time of the 2025 failure. The trend before this shows a pattern of wear progression in suspension elements, suggesting that while the vehicle had been maintained adequately to pass earlier MOTs, the suspension system had been subjected to cumulative stress over time, leading to critical deterioration in the most recent failure. This indicates that the owner has either addressed the underlying issues promptly or that the vehicle has been in less demanding use since the last major failure. The recorded mileage of 75,413 miles for a 2015 Micra represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,856 miles per year, which is within the expected range for its age and class. Given the vehicle’s age, this mileage is neither exceptionally low nor excessively high, but it does not rule out potential wear from prolonged periods of inactivity or low-demand use. Lower mileage could imply that the car has been stored for extended periods, potentially leading to issues such as brake disc corrosion from standing, fluid degradation from stagnation, or tyre sidewall perishing due to age rather than mechanical wear. Conversely, higher-than-average mileage could accelerate the wear on suspension components, brakes, and drivetrain elements, which aligns with the observed suspension failures. It is important to note that the vehicle’s usage pattern may have influenced the rate of wear, particularly if there were significant gaps between service intervals or periods of heavy use. Given the history of front suspension advisories and failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, focusing on the lower arms, bushings, and coil springs. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth road surfaces, as this could indicate worn or broken suspension components. Visually inspect the front wheels for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues. Check for any signs of oil leaks around the suspension mounts or lower arms, as this could confirm the presence of failing bushings. Additionally, examine the front brake system for signs of binding calipers, warped or corroded brake discs, or uneven brake pad wear, as these can result from prolonged standing or heavy use. If the suspension components have been replaced since the last failure, ensure that all new parts are correctly fitted and that the vehicle’s geometry has been re-set according to manufacturer specifications. For the broader vehicle inspection, the buyer should verify the condition of the tyres beyond the legal limits, paying particular attention to sidewall perishing or cracking, which can become critical with age even at moderate mileage. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories from previous MOTs, it is prudent to check the fluid levels and condition of the brake fluid, engine oil, and coolant, as these fluids can degrade over time even if the vehicle is not driven frequently. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V battery is holding a charge, as corrosion or a failing battery can lead to poor electrical systems performance and potential issues with starting or electrical accessories. Finally, the registration plate advisory from 2019 suggests a minor but important safety check—ensure the plate is securely attached and not prone to detachment, which could compromise the vehicle’s roadworthiness in an emergency. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, a comprehensive service history check would also be beneficial, particularly for the suspension, brakes, and fluid servicing intervals, to confirm that all scheduled maintenance has been completed.