There is much to be said for a car that gets on with the job without making a fuss. Nissan has built a strong following in Britain by offering just that: cars for the daily commute, the school run, the weekly shop and the occasional longer journey.
The right used Nissan need not be the newest one on the forecourt. It should be a car that suits your circumstances, is in sound condition and has been looked after properly. A modest hatchback may be all you need; if there are children, dogs or plenty of luggage to accommodate, a larger model could be the better choice.
At Rickmansworth Sports Cars, we have been serving motorists in Watford and Chorleywood since 1967. Our Nissan stock changes as cars come in and are sold, so take a look at the vehicles listed above. If you have a particular model in mind, it is worth asking us what we have available.
Which Nissan should you consider?
Nissan's range covers several quite different sorts of car. The name on the boot is only the beginning; think about space, fuel economy, the type of journeys you make and how much you want to spend on upkeep.
Nissan Micra: a sensible town car
The Micra has long been a familiar sight on British roads. Its compact dimensions make it a natural candidate for town driving, tight parking spaces and shorter everyday journeys.
There have been several generations, with considerable differences in styling, equipment and engines. On an older example, condition and maintenance records deserve at least as much attention as the mileage. Check the clutch on a manual car, listen for suspension knocks and make sure the air conditioning and electrical equipment work as they should.
Nissan Qashqai: family motoring without a full-size SUV
The Qashqai helped establish the appeal of the family crossover. It offers a higher seating position than a conventional hatchback and, depending on the version, useful room for passengers and luggage without the size of a much larger SUV.
If you're considering one, try the rear seats and boot with your usual passengers or luggage in mind. Equipment varies between trim levels, and not every car has the same safety or convenience features. A thorough check of the service history is particularly worthwhile on a car that has covered substantial mileage.
Nissan Juke: compact, distinctive and easy to place
The Juke is aimed at drivers who want something compact but with a more distinctive appearance than an ordinary hatchback. It can work well for couples, smaller households and drivers who favour a higher seating position.
Rear-seat space and rear visibility are worth checking for yourself, particularly if the car will be used regularly as family transport. Take time to try the driving position and assess the boot before deciding whether it suits your needs.
Nissan Note: a practical alternative
A used Note may appeal if you value straightforward access, a useful cabin and sensible proportions over fashion. Depending on the version, its flexible interior can make it a useful everyday car for a small family or someone who needs a little more room than a conventional supermini provides.
As with any older car, inspect the interior for wear, check that the seats and folding mechanisms operate correctly, and look for evidence of regular servicing.
Nissan Almera: straightforward older-school motoring
For buyers considering an older, more affordable car, the Almera is worth knowing about. It is a more traditional proposition than many of today's crossovers, with a conventional hatchback layout and relatively uncomplicated styling.
Age matters here. A low odometer reading is encouraging, but it cannot tell you everything about how a car has been maintained or whether it has spent long periods standing. Look closely at the bodywork, tyres, brakes and underside where accessible, and check the MOT history for recurring advisories.
Petrol or diesel? Start with the journeys you make
There is no universal answer to which engine is best. Your regular use is a more useful guide than a general rule about petrol or diesel.
Mostly town driving and short trips: A petrol Nissan may be the more straightforward choice, particularly if you rarely travel far.
Regular motorway journeys: A diesel may be worth considering if your annual mileage and type of driving make it suitable.
Automatic or manual: An automatic can make congested traffic less tiring; a manual may suit drivers who prefer a more traditional driving experience. The particular gearbox and its condition matter more than the label alone.
Occasional use: If the car will spend much of its time parked, consider its age, maintenance needs and how well it has been kept, rather than buying on mileage alone.
Some diesel models use a diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can cause trouble if the car is mainly used for short journeys that do not allow the system to regenerate properly. If you are considering a diesel and your driving is mostly local, ask about the particular car before making a decision.
What to look for when buying a used Nissan
A used car should be judged on its individual merits. A tidy appearance is welcome, but a little time spent checking the details can tell you much more.
Service records and MOT history
Look for evidence of regular servicing and ask whether any recommended work remains outstanding. Previous MOT results can help identify repeated faults or advisories, although an MOT history is not a substitute for inspecting the car as it stands today.
Engine, clutch and gearbox
The engine should start and run properly, without unexplained warning lights, leaks or unusual noises. On a manual car, check the clutch for slipping or a very high biting point. If the car has an automatic or CVT gearbox, pay attention to its behaviour during the test drive and ask about any model-specific servicing requirements.
Tyres, brakes and suspension
Uneven tyre wear can be a sign of alignment or suspension issues. Listen for knocks over rough surfaces and make sure the brakes operate smoothly, without pulling to one side or causing unusual vibration.
Bodywork and interior
Look beyond the first impression. Check the condition of the paintwork, inspect the cabin for wear that seems inconsistent with the mileage, and try the windows, lights, air conditioning and other fitted equipment. On an older vehicle, signs of corrosion deserve attention.
Above all, consider the complete picture. A car with a sensible history, good condition and a price that reflects its age can be a better buy than a newer example that raises unanswered questions.
Buying a Nissan from Rickmansworth Sports Cars
We are an independent dealership with a long history in local motoring. Our business has served the area since 1967, and we also provide garage services including servicing, MOT preparation and repairs. That gives customers a local point of contact when their car needs attention after purchase.
We believe choosing a used car should involve looking at the vehicle properly, asking the questions that matter and having time to decide. If you are weighing up two models, or are unsure whether a particular car is suitable for your needs, speak to the team.
Finance may be available through our selected providers. Rickmansworth Sports Cars acts as a credit broker, not a lender, and all finance is subject to status, income and the lender's terms. We can explain the available options so that you can decide whether finance is right for you.
If you are looking for a particular Nissan, contact us to discuss what you need. It is better to find the right car for your circumstances than to settle for one that is merely available.
Used Nissan FAQs
Which used Nissan is best for everyday driving?
That depends on your needs. A Micra can suit town driving and parking in tighter spaces, while a Qashqai may be more appropriate if you need family space and a higher driving position. A Juke offers a compact crossover alternative. Compare the individual car's condition, specification and running costs before deciding.
Are used Nissan cars reliable?
Reliability depends on the model, its age, maintenance and how it has been driven. Review the service history, check the MOT record and arrange a proper inspection. No make or model is immune to faults, and a well-maintained example is generally a more reassuring prospect than one with gaps in its history.
Is a high-mileage Nissan worth buying?
It can be. Mileage needs to be considered alongside the car's age, service history, condition and price. Look for evidence of regular maintenance and pay attention to wear on the steering wheel, seats, pedals, tyres and other components. A higher-mileage car with a convincing history may make more sense than a lower-mileage example that has been neglected.
Should I buy a petrol or diesel Nissan?
For predominantly short, local journeys, petrol is often worth considering. Diesel may suit drivers who regularly cover longer distances, depending on the engine and vehicle. If you are considering a diesel that will mainly be used around town, ask about DPF requirements and whether that pattern of use is appropriate.
Can I view used Nissan cars in Chorleywood?
Yes. Rickmansworth Sports Cars has a site on Heronsgate Road in Chorleywood, as well as its Watford location. Check the vehicle listing for its stated location and contact the team before travelling to confirm that the car is still available and arrange a viewing.