2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · W11 CAT

The most recent MOT test for this 2015 Nissan Qashqai on 2026-07-24 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from the previous year’s failures. Over the past six years, the vehicle’s MOT history demonstrates a pattern of recurring advisories related to brake wear and tyre condition, with two notable failures in 2024—particularly the offside and nearside front tyres showing severe edge wear and the rear tyres exhibiting signs of cracking or perishing. While the 2023 and 2022 tests were clean, the 2020 and 2021 advisories on brake pads and discs suggest a consistent trend of gradual wear progression, which, if unaddressed, could escalate into more critical issues such as reduced braking performance or disc warping. The oil leak advisories in 2024 and 2025 indicate a persistent mechanical concern that should be thoroughly investigated, as leaks can lead to engine contamination and long-term damage if not rectified promptly. The recorded mileage of 103,417 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,402 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage data alone does not account for periods of prolonged inactivity, which can exacerbate wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and fluids. The front tyres showing edge wear and the rear tyres with signs of cracking or perishing suggest either aggressive driving habits or prolonged standing in conditions that accelerate tyre degradation, such as exposure to UV light or road debris. The brake advisories, particularly the thin pad condition and worn discs, imply that the braking system has been subjected to regular use, potentially leading to increased heat buildup and further disc pitting if not serviced. This combination of factors warrants a closer inspection of both brake and tyre health to mitigate future roadworthiness risks. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the braking system and tyres, given the recurring advisories. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding or squeaking from the brakes, which could indicate worn pads or damaged discs. Check for any uneven brake pedal travel or pulsation under firm braking, which may signal warped discs or binding calipers. Inspect the brake discs for signs of excessive heat discoloration, scoring, or cracking, and verify that the brake pads are fully seated and not rubbing against the discs. The oil leak advisories necessitate a thorough inspection of the engine bay, focusing on the oil pan, valve cover gasket, and oil filter housing gasket for any signs of fluid pooling or external leakage. Use a flashlight to check under the vehicle for any dark oil stains that may indicate a persistent leak source, such as a failing oil seal or gasket. Beyond the immediate concerns, the tyre condition is of particular importance. The edge wear on the front tyres suggests either underinflation, oversteering, or excessive braking, while the rear tyres’ cracking or perishing indicate potential sidewall damage from prolonged exposure to environmental elements. Measure the tread depth across the entire tyre surface to confirm compliance with legal limits and check for any signs of bulging or blistering, which could compromise tyre integrity. For tyres showing signs of age-related wear, such as sidewall cracking or perishing, consider replacing them even if they remain above the legal tread depth, as these conditions can lead to sudden tyre failure. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age, inspect the suspension components for signs of wear, such as stiffening or clunking noises from worn suspension bushes or coil springs, which can degrade ride quality and contribute to uneven tyre wear. Finally, verify the condition of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged standing can lead to corrosion on terminals or a failing battery, which may not be detected during an MOT but could cause reliability issues. Ensure that all fluids, including the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, are within manufacturer-recommended levels and have not degraded over time, particularly given the oil leak history. If possible, obtain a service history to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid top-ups, has been conducted according to the manufacturer’s schedule.