2021 Nissan Micra 1.0L Petrol · YT21 LMM

The 2021 Nissan Micra’s latest MOT test on 2025-09-09 resulted in a passing outcome, with no failures but two advisories related to the offside and nearside rear tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing. This follows a clean MOT in June 2024 and another in May 2024, indicating a stable maintenance trend with no worsening defects over the past two years. The advisories suggest minor but persistent tyre degradation, which could be attributed to age-related wear rather than recent operational stress, as the vehicle has not been subjected to high-mileage conditions. While the advisories do not affect roadworthiness, they serve as a reminder to address tyre condition promptly to prevent further deterioration, particularly if the vehicle is driven regularly. The recorded mileage of 17,248 miles for a five-year-old Micra represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 3,450 miles per year, which is considerably below the average for its age. Such low mileage can occur due to light usage, long periods of inactivity, or specific operational needs—though it may also indicate underlying issues such as engine or drivetrain inefficiencies that limit driving range. For a vehicle with this usage profile, the suspension and braking systems may not have encountered the same degree of wear as those on higher-mileage examples, but the advisories on the tyres suggest that age-related degradation has already begun. The low mileage alone does not justify overlooking the tyre advisories, as tyre perishing can compromise grip and safety, particularly in wet or adverse conditions. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in this Nissan Micra are the rear tyres, given the MOT advisories indicating perishing or cracking. Visually check the tread depth and sidewall condition, paying particular attention to any signs of dry rot, delamination, or internal damage, as these can lead to sudden blowouts or reduced traction. On a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the rear suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil springs. Additionally, inspect the rear brake discs and linings for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, as prolonged inactivity can cause rust to form on the discs or calipers, leading to reduced braking performance. The vehicle’s battery should also be checked, as low usage may result in a partially discharged or failing 12V battery, which can cause electrical gremlins or poor starting. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, further practical checks include examining the engine oil and coolant for signs of degradation, such as sludge buildup or sludge in the dipstick tube, which can indicate prolonged service intervals. The fuel system should be inspected for any signs of contamination or blockages, as low mileage vehicles can sometimes develop fuel injector issues due to fuel sitting in the system. The exhaust system should be checked for leaks, corrosion, or structural integrity, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler, as these components can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, verify that the service book records have been updated, as the vehicle’s age suggests it should have undergone scheduled maintenance such as a timing belt replacement (if applicable) and a full brake and suspension service. If the service history is incomplete, consider arranging these checks to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition for its age and usage profile.