2004 Nissan D22 2.5L Diesel · YY04 RRV

The most recent DVSA MOT test, recorded on 2025-04-29, resulted in a pass, though it should be noted that an earlier test on the same date initially failed before being re-presented and passed. The pass was issued alongside several advisories, which are useful indicators of developing wear rather than immediate failures. Looking at the broader pattern over recent years, the maintenance trend is mixed and warrants careful scrutiny. In 2024 alone, the vehicle failed three times, accumulating majors including excessively worn suspension ball joints, headlamp aim defects, excessive wheel bearing play, a failed shock absorber bush, and an inoperative front position lamp. While the most recent pass is encouraging, the density of suspension and lighting-related majors during 2024 suggests that the vehicle may have undergone a period of deferred maintenance which has since been partially addressed, but buyers should not assume underlying components are fully resolved simply because the latest test returned a pass. The recorded mileage of 95,338 miles across 22 years equates to an annual average of roughly 4,334 miles, which is exceptionally low for a working vehicle of this type. The Nissan D22 is typically used as a utility or light commercial pickup, and such low annual mileage often indicates prolonged periods of standing interspersed with short trips, or possibly a vehicle that has been used only intermittently. Mechanically, low annual mileage is not necessarily a positive indicator on a vehicle of this age, as prolonged standing can lead to its own set of problems including brake disc corrosion, caliper seizure, deterioration of flexible components such as coolant hoses and prop shaft couplings, and degradation of fluids through age rather than use. Conversely, components that wear with cycles of use rather than calendar time, such as the engine internals, clutch, and gearbox, may present in better condition than the high mileage figure would otherwise suggest. The MOT history shows no major gaps, with tests recorded annually, but the mileage progression between tests would be worth verifying through the V5C and service records to confirm whether the vehicle has been used regularly or has experienced long idle periods. Given the advisory items raised at the most recent test, a prospective buyer should focus on a targeted inspection of the suspension and drivetrain. The advisory regarding slight play in the offside front lower suspension ball joint, when read alongside the previous major failure for an excessively worn nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint in 2024, suggests that the suspension is subject to progressive wear across both sides and warrants a physical check of all ball joints, track rod ends, and anti-roll bar bushes for any current free play, particularly by jacking the front and rocking the wheels manually. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, which would indicate that the slight play noted has progressed toward the previous major defect level. The advisory on the nearside front anti-roll bar pin or bush, and the history of shock absorber casing damage and worn bushes, means that the dampers and their mountings should also be inspected for fluid leakage, perished bushes, and corrosion at the top mounts. The deteriorated rear prop shaft flexible coupling is a particularly relevant advisory for a rear-wheel-drive pickup and can manifest as vibration or a rhythmic knocking under load, especially at higher speeds or when carrying weight in the load bed, so a thorough test drive including some spirited acceleration and deceleration is advisable. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age and mileage-related checks are strongly recommended given that this is a 22-year-old vehicle with low annual usage. The tyres, despite the vehicle's low mileage, will be subject to significant age-related perishing and sidewall cracking, and should be inspected closely for any signs of dry rot regardless of tread depth, with particular reference to the advisory on edge wear from 2024 which suggests possible tracking or camber issues. Brake discs on a low-mileage, frequently stood vehicle are highly susceptible to corrosion pitting and lip formation, and the calipers may be binding through seized slider pins; a test drive should include several firm applications of the brakes to confirm straight-line stability and absence of shudder under braking, while a visual inspection behind the wheels should confirm the discs are within thickness limits and free from significant ridging. Given the calendar age, the 12V battery is likely due for replacement or at minimum a load test, as batteries rarely last beyond five to six years regardless of use. All fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, degrade with time and should be checked for condition and service date evidence in the book pack. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp advisory should also be investigated with a diagnostic scan tool to confirm the airbag system is functional, as this is a critical safety system that should not be ignored. Finally, given the recurring registration plate lamp defect, a simple functional check of all exterior lighting prior to purchase is prudent.