2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · PO11 AJO

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-13 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included a persistent advisory regarding the rear brake pads showing significant wear, classified as 1.1.13 (a) (ii). Despite this advisory, the overall maintenance trend over the past year is not worsening but rather stabilising; the vehicle has avoided major failures since the February 2025 test, where critical issues such as front brake pad thickness below the legal minimum and a severely worn front suspension arm ball joint were recorded. The progression from that test to the current one suggests that while the rear brake pads remain a concern, the front suspension and braking systems have been addressed or are under control, preventing further critical failures. The advisory on rear brake pad wear, however, indicates ongoing friction and potential future maintenance needs, warranting attention to avoid a repeat of the 2025 failure where front brake pads were dangerously thin. The recorded mileage of 63,288 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,753 miles per year, which is notably lower than the typical wear-influenced mileage accumulation for a car of this class. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of stationary use, particularly if the vehicle was kept in a garage or used sparingly for commuting or leisure. However, this usage pattern may mask underlying wear from prolonged idling, which can accelerate issues such as brake pad and disc corrosion, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in suspension and cooling systems. Additionally, low mileage does not inherently negate the risk of structural fatigue or internal component stress from standing, especially if the vehicle has been exposed to temperature extremes or stored in suboptimal conditions. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the braking system and suspension components, given the recurring advisories and past failures. Begin with the brakes: check the rear brake pads for even wear and any signs of glazing or uneven friction material thickness. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the rear brakes, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact as the pads wear further. Inspect the rear brake discs for warping, scoring, or corrosion, and verify that the calipers are not binding or seized. Test the braking performance by applying the rear brake pedal firmly and ensuring consistent response without excessive pedal travel or vibration. The front suspension, particularly the offside arm ball joint, remains a concern due to past excessive wear. Feel for excessive play or looseness in the suspension linkage during a test drive, noting any clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, which may indicate further deterioration. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal suspension or alignment issues. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider practical age-and-mileage-appropriate inspections. Given the vehicle’s age and low recorded mileage, examine the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and handling. Check the tyre tread depth for legal compliance and signs of uneven wear that might indicate alignment or suspension problems. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler, as emissions-related failures are common in older vehicles. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as low usage can lead to sulphation or internal degradation, and test the starter motor and alternator for proper operation. Lastly, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in the past year, consider checking the service book for the last recorded maintenance, including fluid levels (brake fluid, coolant, engine oil), and any scheduled fluid changes. Pay particular attention to the brake fluid, which can degrade over time and compromise braking performance, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods.