NISSAN QASHQAI2017 · 1.6L DIESEL

The maintenance trend for this Qashqai is worsening, particularly concerning the suspension and steering components. In the most recent December 2025 test at 74,864 miles, the vehicle passed, yet the tester flagged advisories for play in the steering rack inner joint(s) and deteriorating front lower suspension arm bushes. The same test failed initially due to a damaged nearside track rod end ball joint dust cover and low offside headlamp aim. Shock absorber degradation has persisted since 2023; the nearside unit showed reduced damping in September 2023 at 60,092 miles, and both front units exhibited light oil misting by September 2024 at 68,824 miles. A previous owner deferred replacing these dampers, allowing the deterioration to progress. Covering roughly 8,318 miles annually, the mileage pattern is typical for a nine-year-old vehicle and does not raise immediate concerns about long-term standing or extreme use. The recorded intervals show steady accumulation: 60,092 miles in September 2023, 68,824 miles in September 2024, and 74,864 miles in December 2025. The slightly lower mileage accumulation between 2024 and 2025—6,040 miles over fifteen months—suggests lighter recent use, though this has not prevented the suspension components from degrading with age. The MOT record lacks any glaring gaps that would indicate the vehicle sat idle for extended periods. A prospective buyer must thoroughly inspect the front suspension and steering rack before purchase. The recurring advisories regarding deteriorating front lower suspension arm bushes and play in the steering rack inner joint indicate advanced wear, likely exacerbated by the failing shock absorbers. The compromised nearside track rod end ball joint dust cover allows dirt ingress, accelerating joint wear and compromising structural integrity. Check the rear brake components closely, as the tester flagged rear brake pads wearing thin back in September 2023, and verify the nearside rear seat belt buckle operates correctly, given its failure in September 2024. Replacing the worn dampers, bushes, and track rod end will be necessary to ensure the vehicle's long-term roadworthiness.