2001 Nissan Micra 1.3L Petrol · Y326 EKS

The 2001 Nissan Micra’s most recent MOT test on 2024-11-21 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the immediate preceding test on 2024-11-20—just 15 miles earlier—was a failure without recorded defects. This suggests a procedural anomaly rather than a mechanical issue, as no faults were logged in either the 2023 or 2022 tests. The vehicle has passed all available MOTs since 2022 without advisories, indicating no persistent structural or safety-critical failures. However, the lack of defects in failures implies either inconsistent testing or the possibility of undocumented issues, such as intermittent faults not caught during the brief inspection window. The recorded mileage of 71,220 miles over roughly 25 years equates to an average of just 2,849 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the 11-month span between the 2023 and 2024 MOTs—align with the legal requirement but do not provide insight into maintenance frequency. The sudden 7,000-mile jump between the 2022 and 2023 tests (from 58,157 to 64,225) could indicate a period of heavier use, though the lack of failures suggests the vehicle was not abused. Still, such a rapid accumulation may have accelerated wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake components. Given the absence of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear items not typically caught in MOTs. Focus on the suspension—check for cracked or dried coil springs, degraded bushes, and binding calipers, as these often fail intermittently. The brakes should be examined for uneven wear or corrosion on the discs and pads, especially if the vehicle was stood for extended periods. Structural integrity is less of a concern given the clean MOT history, but a close inspection of the sills, wheel arches, and subframe for corrosion is advisable, particularly if the car was stored in wet conditions. The engine bay should be checked for leaks or excessive oil consumption, as these are common in older Nissan Micras. Finally, verify the integrity of the exhaust system, as catalytic converter failures or rusted pipes can lead to emissions failures without obvious external signs.