2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LY67 AAN

The most recent MOT inspection on 10 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle is exhibiting a clear trend of deteriorating suspension components. While the vehicle has avoided major failures in the last two years, the recurring advisories regarding the front lower suspension arm bushes and ball joint dust covers indicate that these components are reaching the end of their serviceable life. The maintenance history shows a transition from a critical failure in 2023, which involved dangerous brake wear, to a more progressive pattern of wear and tear in the chassis and suspension. This suggests that while the owner is addressing major mechanical issues as they arise, the vehicle is now entering a phase where multiple wear-and-tear items will require simultaneous attention to maintain roadworthiness. With a recorded mileage of 48,793 over approximately eight years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 6,100 miles per year. This is considered low-to-moderate usage for a Nissan Qashqai of this age, which typically suggests the vehicle has been used for shorter, perhaps more urban, journeys rather than sustained motorway cruising. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can often lead to other issues such as moisture accumulation in the exhaust system or less frequent cleaning of brake discs, which can lead to surface corrosion. In this specific case, the low annual mileage aligns with the observed degradation of rubber components like suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls, which often perish due to age and environmental exposure rather than physical distance travelled. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle during a test drive. The repeated advisories for worn suspension arm bushes and deteriorated ball joint dust covers mean that the integrity of the steering and suspension geometry is compromised. You should listen intently for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of perished bushes or loose ball joints. Furthermore, the deteriorated dust covers on the ball joints are a significant concern because they allow grit and moisture to enter the joint, which will lead to premature mechanical failure and potentially more expensive steering rack issues if left unaddressed. Regarding the tyres, the MOT history has consistently flagged cracking and perishing on the nearside sidewalls. This indicates that the rubber is becoming brittle due to age, a common occurrence in vehicles that are not driven frequently or are kept outdoors. During your inspection, check the entire tread surface of all four tyres for similar signs of age-related cracking, especially in the grooves and along the sidewalls. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, perishing rubber can lead to sudden structural failure. Finally, given the history of brake disc and pad issues in 2023, you should verify that the braking system feels consistent and does not exhibit any shuddering or pulling to one side, which would indicate uneven disc wear or binding calipers.