2017 Nissan X-Trail 2.0L Diesel · LN17 AAY

The 2017 Nissan X-Trail most recently passed its MOT on 4 March 2025, although the test did record an oil leak advisory classified as not excessive, a minor failure for a near-side rear position lamp with multiple light sources partially not functioning, two advisories relating to child seats obscuring full inspection of the rear adult belts, and an advisory for wear on the near-side front inner suspension arm pin or bush. The previous two tests in February 2024 and February 2023 were passed with no defects recorded, while the February 2022 test passed but flagged rear brake pads wearing thin and rear brake discs worn, pitted or scored. The overall maintenance trend suggests a broadly stable vehicle that has remained roadworthy year on year, but with a gradual accumulation of advisories in 2022 and 2025 that indicate progressive wear on key consumable and chassis components rather than any sudden deterioration. The fact that all tests passed without major or dangerous defects is reassuring, but the recurrence of brake-related advisories followed by suspension and oil leak advisories is consistent with the typical wear pattern of a high-mileage SUV and warrants careful inspection before purchase. With approximately 134,380 recorded miles over nine years, this X-Trail is averaging around 14,931 miles per year, which is well above the national average and places it firmly in the higher-mileage bracket for its age. There are no significant mileage gaps in the MOT record that would suggest long periods of standing, and the consistency of annual testing indicates the vehicle has been in regular use. Such sustained high mileage typically accelerates wear on engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension and braking components, and while the X-Trail has proven mechanically robust throughout the test history, a thorough mechanical inspection is essential to confirm internal condition. Particular attention should be paid to clutch operation if manual, automatic transmission smoothness, turbocharger performance if applicable, and four-wheel-drive system integrity where fitted. On a physical inspection and test drive, the 2025 advisory regarding the near-side front inner suspension arm pin or bush should be a priority check. Listen for any knocking, clunking or rattling from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps, uneven surfaces or during sharp steering inputs, as worn bushes can progress to excessive movement and eventually fail the next MOT. Inspect the component visually for cracking, perishing or visible play, and budget for replacement if movement is now beyond advisory limits. The earlier advisories on the rear brake discs and pads from 2022 indicate that braking components have already required attention, and given the high mileage and the three-year gap since that advisory, the rear discs and pads should be examined for current thickness, surface condition and caliper function. On test drive, listen for brake squeal or grinding, feel for any shudder or pull under braking, and check for binding by confirming the vehicle rolls freely when released in neutral on level ground. The recorded oil leak, while classed as not excessive at the last test, should not be ignored as it indicates a sealing issue that is likely to worsen over time. Check the underside for fresh oil residues, particularly around the sump, valve cover gasket, oil filter housing and any turbo or cam chain areas if applicable, and verify the oil level and condition on the dipstick to ensure the engine is not being topped up excessively between services. The minor lamp failure is a trivial repair but worth confirming has been rectified. Beyond the documented advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants thorough checks of tyre age and sidewall condition for perishing cracking, brake disc corrosion especially given any periods of standing, 12-volt battery health, and confirmation that major service items such as timing chain, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid have been replaced at calendar-based intervals regardless of mileage. Verify a complete service history with stamps, and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection to assess areas not covered by the MOT test such as clutch wear, exhaust internal corrosion, and overall structural condition.