2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · DL18 ABK

The latest MOT test on 2026-05-21 resulted in a clean pass, though it included several persistent advisories that suggest a pattern of wear and maintenance attention required over the vehicle’s lifecycle. The advisories on front tyre wear close to the legal limit and edge wear, alongside repeated notifications of brake disc pitting and thinning brake pads, indicate that the Qashqai has experienced consistent friction system degradation. The front suspension ball joint play advisory from the previous year’s test further highlights ongoing wear in the suspension assembly, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to increased road noise, steering irregularities, or even suspension failure over time. While the overall trend in MOT results has remained stable with no failures, the advisories underscore that the vehicle demands proactive servicing rather than being a low-maintenance candidate. The recorded mileage of 95,333 miles for an eight-year-old Nissan Qashqai reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,917 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. This pace suggests a mix of regular driving and possible periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate certain wear patterns. For instance, standing for prolonged periods may accelerate brake disc corrosion or caliper binding, particularly on the rear brakes where pitting and thin pad wear were noted in prior MOTs. Conversely, lower mileage could imply less aggressive driving, but it also raises concerns about potential hidden issues from infrequent servicing, such as degraded fluids or internal component wear that only manifests under load. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation does not preclude the need for thorough inspection, as wear progression in suspension, brakes, and tyres can be gradual but cumulative. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous mechanical inspection, focusing on the suspension and braking systems given the recurring advisories. Visually inspect the front and rear brake discs for signs of warping, excessive pitting, or uneven wear, and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises during braking, which may indicate worn pads or binding calipers. The suspension should be checked for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the offside front tyres where edge wear was noted, which could signal misalignment or camber issues. Test the steering for play or excessive resistance, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may reveal ball joint or control arm wear. Additionally, verify that the rear tyres are free from excessive cupping or uneven wear, as this could point to suspension or alignment problems. Beyond the mechanical systems, the buyer should also address practical checks relevant to the vehicle’s age and usage profile. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V battery holds a charge when static, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation. Examine the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, paying particular attention to any signs of contamination or degradation, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, verify that the service history is complete, particularly for the timing belt replacement (if applicable) and other scheduled maintenance, such as the air filter, fuel filter, and spark plugs, which are critical for long-term reliability. If the service book is unavailable, a professional inspection should confirm that these intervals have been adhered to.