2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · HG15 AAV

Corrosion on the rear subframe and developing play in the steering and suspension components represent the primary mechanical concerns for this vehicle, as evidenced by the April 2026 MOT pass which carried several significant advisories. While the vehicle has maintained a passing status since 2023, the most recent inspection shows a trend of increasing wear in the steering and suspension systems, specifically regarding the offside front steering rack inner joint and the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage. This follows a pattern of recurring advisories for brake disc wear and suspension joint play seen in the 2025 test, suggesting that components related to the chassis and braking system are reaching the end of their service life. The recorded mileage of 90,965 miles over approximately eleven years equates to an average annual usage of roughly 8,270 miles. This represents a typical usage pattern for a petrol or diesel crossover of this age, suggesting the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme high-mileage motorway driving nor has it suffered from the mechanical stagnation often associated with very low-mileage vehicles. This level of accumulation generally implies a steady rate of wear on consumables such as brake discs, pads, and tyres, which is consistent with the various advisories recorded for these items across the 2023, 2025, and 2026 testing cycles. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the steering and suspension during a test drive to assess the severity of the flagged defects. The advisory regarding play in the offside front steering rack inner joint may manifest as a vague or imprecise steering feel, or potentially a clunking noise when turning the wheel at low speeds or navigating uneven surfaces. Similarly, the slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint could result in audible knocks or rattles when driving over speed bumps or potholes. It is essential to verify if these noises are present, as they indicate components that will require replacement to restore precise handling and quiet operation. The structural integrity of the rear subframe and the condition of the braking system also require scrutiny. Although the 2026 advisory notes the subframe corrosion is not yet seriously weakened, the presence of rust on a structural component is a progressive issue that should be monitored. Regarding the braking system, the history of worn and pitted brake discs across multiple years suggests that the braking performance should be evaluated for any pedal judder or uneven deceleration. Additionally, the oil leak noted in the 2023 record should be checked to ensure it has not increased in volume or affected other ancillary components, as even non-excessive leaks can indicate seal degradation over time.