2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · PJ66 AAN

The 2016 Nissan Qashqai’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2025-11-20 resulted in a passing grade, though it included two significant advisories concerning the front tyres, each showing wear near the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear patterns consistent with underinflation, improper alignment, or excessive load distribution. These advisories, both recorded under the same category (5.2.3(e)), suggest a recurring issue rather than a one-off anomaly, indicating either a persistent alignment or handling problem or a pattern of neglect in tyre maintenance. The absence of failures and the prior clean MOT results from 2024 and earlier imply a stable maintenance trend, but the repeated tyre advisories warrant further scrutiny to determine whether they stem from genuine wear progression or preventative measures taken too late. The vehicle’s overall condition appears sound, but the tyre advisories should prompt a thorough inspection to confirm their cause and prevent further degradation, which could compromise road safety or lead to premature tyre replacement costs. The recorded mileage of 42,086 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents an annual usage rate of around 4,209 miles, which is notably lower than the average for its class. Such low mileage is unusual for a ten-year-old car and may reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle was stored under adverse conditions—such as exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight—which can accelerate wear on rubber components, fluids, and mechanical parts. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation over the last few years suggests that the owner has likely maintained a conservative driving profile, but this also raises concerns about potential idling or stationary conditions that can exacerbate issues like brake corrosion, suspension binding, or fluid degradation. For instance, standing for extended periods without regular movement can cause brake discs to corrode, leading to binding or reduced braking efficiency, while fluids like brake fluid and differential oil can degrade over time due to evaporation or contamination, even with minimal use. Given the Qashqai’s age and the recorded mileage, prospective buyers should conduct a meticulous inspection to address both active and latent wear risks. Start with the tyres, as the advisories indicate, by checking for uneven wear patterns beyond the advisories—this could signal misalignment, suspension issues, or improper load distribution. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or coil spring damage, and check for steering pull or vibration, which could point to alignment or tyre-related problems. The brake system should be inspected for corrosion on discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for long periods, and test for binding or excessive play in the calipers. The rear wiper blade advisory from 2023 is minor but should be replaced promptly, as a split blade can impair visibility during adverse weather. Additionally, examine the vehicle’s exterior for signs of rust, especially around wheel arches, undercarriage, and door seals, as prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise structural integrity. Internally, check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion or weakness, as low usage can lead to battery failure, and verify that all fluids—including coolant, brake fluid, and differential oil—are topped up and free from contamination. Given the low mileage, consider a service history check to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, has been conducted according to the manufacturer’s schedule, as calendar-based servicing may have been necessary even with limited mileage. Finally, a thorough visual and functional inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, and the electrical system for any unusual signs of wear or failure, will ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy and safe for use.