2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · EJ11 ABN

The most recent MOT, dated 1 April 2026, resulted in a failure due to a dangerous bulge on the off‑side rear tyre, together with an advisory for a modest front‑lower oil leak and a minor fault with the off‑side registration plate lamp. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has accumulated a series of advisories and minor items – deteriorating tyre tread, cracked tyre sidewalls, worn ball‑joint dust covers and a deteriorating door hinge – but none have risen to a dangerous level until now. Consequently the maintenance trend can be described as gradually deteriorating, with the tyre condition now representing a clear escalation from advisory to failure. At 94 482 miles recorded for a 2011 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6 300 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a fifteen‑year‑old car. The mileage figure does not suggest any periods of intensive short‑term abuse, but the relatively modest run‑rate also implies the vehicle may have spent extended periods standing, a factor that can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension components. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, so the odometer reading is likely to be reliable. Prospective buyers should give immediate attention to the off‑side rear tyre; a bulge indicates internal ply separation and the tyre is unsafe for any further road use, requiring replacement together with a thorough inspection of the opposite rear tyre for early signs of perishing. The near‑side rear tyre also shows cracking, so both rear tyres should be measured for tread depth, sidewall integrity and uniform wear patterns – uneven wear could point to mis‑aligned suspension or worn bushings. The recurring ball‑joint dust‑cover damage on both front track‑rod ends, while not yet permitting dirt ingress, suggests the protective covers are deteriorating and may soon allow contaminants to reach the joints, leading to clunking or steering looseness; a test drive should be monitored for any front‑end knock or vague steering feel, especially over bumps. The modest front‑lower oil leak, noted consistently since 2024, is likely emanating from the valve cover or oil pan gasket; while not yet excessive, it warrants a visual inspection for drips on the sump and a check of oil level and condition, as chronic leaks can lead to low oil levels and accelerated engine wear. The inoperative off‑side rear registration plate lamp should be remedied promptly to avoid future MOT failures. Given the vehicle’s age, additional time‑based checks are advisable irrespective of the MOT record. Examine all tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking, as rubber can perish after six years even with low mileage. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and assess the state of charge, as a fifteen‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Verify that brake discs are free of heavy rust, scoring or glazing and that pads retain sufficient thickness; standing periods often cause disc surface corrosion that can lead to shudder when applied. Review the service history for evidence of regular oil, coolant and brake fluid changes, as fluids degrade with time and can affect engine lubrication, cooling efficiency and braking performance. Finally, look for any signs of chassis rust, especially around wheel arches, sills and suspension mounting points, and ensure door hinges operate smoothly, addressing the noted deterioration before it progresses to binding or mis‑alignment.