2016 Nissan Micra 1.2L Petrol · YG66 MSU

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 7 August 2026, although this followed a failure just two days prior. The failure was triggered by a dangerous lack of tread on the nearside front tyre and a defective windscreen wiper blade. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the fact that a tyre reached a dangerous limit suggests a lack of routine preventative maintenance by the previous keeper. The overall trend indicates a vehicle that is mechanically functional but has been neglected in terms of basic safety inspections leading up to the certification. With a recorded mileage of 42,153 miles over approximately ten years, this Nissan Micra has averaged roughly 4,215 miles per year. This is considerably lower than the typical UK annual average. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the internal engine components and drivetrain, it often suggests a history of short urban journeys or extended periods of standing. Such usage patterns can lead to specific mechanical issues, including carbon accumulation in the exhaust system and the premature degradation of rubber seals and gaskets due to lack of heat cycling. The recent MOT advisories regarding worn suspension arm pins and bushes on both the nearside and offside front are of particular importance. These components are critical for maintaining wheel alignment and steering precision. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces and check for any instability or drifting in the steering. The previous record of edge wear on the tyres further supports the conclusion that the front suspension is deteriorating, meaning a full alignment and potential bush replacement will likely be required in the near future. Given the low mileage and age of the vehicle, a comprehensive physical inspection is essential. The buyer should examine all tyre sidewalls for perishing or hairline cracking, as rubber degrades over time regardless of the distance travelled. It is also vital to inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and check for binding calipers, which frequently occur when a vehicle stands for long periods. Furthermore, the service history should be scrutinized to confirm that engine oil and other essential fluids have been replaced according to calendar intervals rather than mileage alone, as aged oil loses its protective properties. Finally, the health of the 12V battery should be verified to ensure it has not been degraded by infrequent charging cycles.