2014 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · EK14 AAE

The most recent DVSA examination on 29 November 2024 resulted in a Pass, though it was accompanied by two advisories and a minor defect. The minor item related to a severely deteriorated nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover, a finding that warrants attention as the protective boot is intended to prevent ingress of dirt and moisture into the joint. The advisories noted an oil leak described as not excessive and rear brake pads wearing thin, both of which indicate components approaching the threshold of required replacement. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the vehicle has consistently passed since 2021 with a clean record in 2021 and 2022, but the 2023 test recorded a Dangerous failure for a bulging offside front tyre, alongside recurring advisories for oil leakage and nearside tyre wear. This trajectory suggests a broadly maintained vehicle, though the emergence of suspension, brake, and tyre related observations in recent tests indicates that consumable wear items are now demanding closer attention as the car accumulates higher mileage. With 130,301 miles recorded over approximately twelve years, this Qashqai has covered an average of around 10,800 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no unusually large gaps between MOT entries that would suggest prolonged standing, and the annual mileage appears consistent and sustained, pointing to regular use rather than extended inactivity. Such usage generally promotes better long term mechanical health by keeping seals lubricated, preventing brake disc corrosion from setting in, and maintaining battery charge, though it does mean that wear sensitive components such as suspension bushes, engine mounts, and drivetrain elements will have experienced continuous service life and should be expected to show commensurate wear. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisory for an oil leak should be prioritised during physical inspection. It is advisable to examine the underbody and engine bay for fresh oil residue, paying particular attention to the sump, valve cover gasket, and any areas where oil may be tracking downwards onto suspension components or the exhaust, as persistent leakage can mask other mechanical issues and may accelerate degradation of rubber bushings. The advisory for rear brake pads wearing thin, issued in November 2024, means that by mid to late 2025 the pads are likely to require replacement, and during a test drive the buyer should listen for any grinding or squealing from the rear under light braking and feel for any pulling or imbalance through the pedal. The minor defect concerning the ball joint dust cover should also be followed up; a visual inspection of the front suspension for any perished or split boots, combined with a careful listen for clunks or knocking over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, will help confirm whether the joint itself remains serviceable or if further deterioration has occurred since the test. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, several age related inspections are also strongly recommended irrespective of the MOT history. Tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with time even where tread depth remains adequate, and a full set of matching tyres of recent manufacture is preferable. The 12V battery should be load tested, particularly if the vehicle has been used predominantly for short journeys, as Qashqai electrical systems can be sensitive to weak state of charge. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping and surface corrosion, especially at the rear given the pad wear advisory, and the handbrake mechanism checked for full engagement and release to rule out binding calipers. Finally, verification of timely replacement of engine coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil according to manufacturer service intervals is essential, as these fluids degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, and a comprehensive stamped service history will give the strongest indication of overall mechanical care.