2002 Nissan Almera 1.5L Petrol · WN52 WDF

The most recent MOT, dated 27 November 2025, was passed but returned three advisories – a slight seepage from the power‑steering pipe, corrosion on the off‑side rear brake pipe and a non‑functioning central stop lamp. The previous day’s test had failed on three major items (negligible damping from the nearside front shock absorber, an off‑side rear tyre not fitted to the side‑wall specification and an off‑side headlamp aim error). The pattern over the last six years shows a mixture of occasional major failures and a steady stream of minor advisories, particularly concerning tyre side‑wall perishing, brake‑hose ferrule corrosion and suspension component wear. While the most recent pass indicates that the most serious defects have been remedied, the cumulative advisory load suggests the vehicle’s overall maintenance trajectory is only marginally improving and remains vulnerable to age‑related deterioration. At 76 501 mi the Almera averages just over 3 200 mi per annum, a very low utilisation rate for a 24‑year‑old car. Such limited running often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate corrosion of brake lines, suspension mounts and exhaust components, as well as promote fluid breakdown and battery sulphation. Conversely, the low mileage means that wear items such as cam‑shaft bearings, transmission gears and engine internals are likely to be well within their design life, provided regular oil changes have been observed. The key risk is therefore not high‑mileage wear but the effects of calendar ageing on rubber, metal and electronic parts. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the power‑steering system – inspect the hose for active leaks, verify the fluid level and condition, and feel for any whining or loss of assist under steering load. The rear brake pipe on the off‑side should be examined for rust, pitting or signs of fluid seepage; a pressure test or visual inspection of the brake lines and caliper operation is advisable, and the central stop lamp must be replaced and confirmed functional. The front shock absorber that previously showed negligible damping should be checked for oil leakage, loss of rebound and any clunking when the vehicle is driven over a speed‑bump; uneven ride height or excessive body roll would indicate the need for replacement. Tyre condition is a recurring theme – both front and rear tyres have been flagged for side‑wall cracking and edge wear; verify that the current tyres match the manufacturer’s size and load rating, inspect the tread depth uniformly, and look for dry rot, especially on the off‑side rear tyre that was once fitted incorrectly. Brake pads were noted as thin in 2023, so confirm pad thickness and listen for any squeal or shudder under moderate braking, while also checking the condition of the brake hoses for corrosion at the ferrules. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, the buyer should also perform age‑related checks independent of the MOT record. Examine the chassis and suspension mounting points for rust, especially the off‑side rear suspension area previously recorded as corroded, and ensure there is no excessive play in the ball joints or bushings. Test the 12 V battery for cranking voltage and inspect the terminals for sulphation, as prolonged storage can lead to premature failure. Verify that all fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering – have been replaced at appropriate intervals and are free from water contamination or sludge. Finally, a thorough review of the service book for regular oil changes, timing‑chain inspections (the Almera uses a chain) and any recorded part replacements will give confidence that the car has been kept in a mechanically sound state despite its modest mileage.