2005 Nissan Terrano 2.7L Diesel · YN05 ADX

The Nissan Terrano achieved a PASS at its most recent MOT on 26 August 2026, although the test recorded one minor defect and four advisories which collectively warrant careful consideration. The minor item relates to a severely deteriorated offside front outer CV joint boot, which if left unattended will allow grease to escape and moisture to enter, leading to premature joint failure and costly four-wheel-drive drivetrain repair. The advisories indicate a recurring pattern of front suspension wear, specifically an offside front anti-roll bar ball joint with slight play now joined by an offside front inner tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge and a nearside rear anti-roll bar ball joint also showing slight play. The oil leak advisory has appeared at multiple tests, suggesting a persistent but minor seepage that should be monitored for progression. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp fault that caused a major failure in June 2025 was clearly rectified before the subsequent pass, and a nearside rear brake pipe excessively corroded at the same time has presumably been replaced, though brake pipe corrosion on a vehicle of this age often signifies broader underfloor corrosion that should be physically inspected. At 111,262 miles over 21 years, this Terrano has accumulated a notably low annual average of around 5,298 miles, which is consistent with either light utility use or extended periods of standing between infrequent longer journeys. Such low mileage carries its own mechanical concerns, particularly the risk of moisture accumulation in the engine oil, gearbox, and differential fluids leading to internal corrosion of bearings and synchros, alongside potential oxidation in the braking hydraulic system and cooling circuit. Standing periods also encourage binding of the front brake calipers, flat-spots on the discs, perishing and sidewall degradation of any tyres regardless of tread depth, and sulphation of the 12-volt battery which significantly shortens service life. The MOT history suggests roughly annual testing with mileage increments of several thousand miles between tests, indicating the vehicle is being used rather than left dormant, though the occasional gaps such as between June 2024 and June 2025 are worth confirming with the seller. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns centre on the recurring suspension component wear documented across the last three tests. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint play has now been joined by anti-roll bar ball joint play on the same side and at the rear, which suggests the original components are reaching the end of their service life; during inspection, listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, and check for uneven inner or outer tyre wear which would indicate worn geometry. The inner tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge warrants immediate replacement and a four-wheel geometry check to confirm no underlying suspension misalignment. The deteriorating CV boot should be replaced promptly with the joint itself inspected for play before grease loss causes irreparable damage. On a test drive, expect to feel any vibration through the steering or footwell under load if the joint is dry, and listen for a rhythmic knock from the front when turning on full lock. Beyond the flagged items, several age-related checks are essential given the vehicle's 21-year service life. Inspect all brake discs for severe edge corrosion and lipping which can cause pedal pulsation and reduced efficiency, and verify the handbrake holds firmly on an incline given the previous parking brake efficiency failure. Examine the underbody and chassis rails for advanced corrosion, particularly around the rear brake pipe routing where the previous excessively corroded pipe was identified, and check the condition of all visible brake and fuel lines for surface rust. Confirm the timing belt or chain replacement interval has been observed with supporting documentation, as neglect on this item typically destroys the engine. Verify tyre manufacture markings as aged rubber cracks regardless of tread depth, test all electrical functions including the previously faulty supplementary restraint system warning lamp, and ensure all fluid services including brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil have been performed within their calendar intervals. Finally, request evidence of the seat belt webbing repair noted on the latest advisory and confirm the missing rear passenger seat referenced in earlier tests has been either correctly reinstated or properly removed with appropriate documentation, as seat configuration changes must be declared.