2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · WV15 AAZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 6 August 2026 resulted in a Pass, accompanied by an advisory noting corrosion on the offside rear lower suspension arm that was not deemed serious at the time of test. Reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but warrants close attention from a buyer. The vehicle has passed its last three tests, which is reassuring, yet the test records show a recurring minor defect relating to the offside rear registration plate lamp inoperative across the 2024 and 2025 tests, alongside more meaningful suspension concerns, most notably a Major failure at the 2025 test for an excessively worn nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint. While the most recent pass suggests this component was subsequently rectified, the appearance of an advisory for rear suspension arm corrosion only one test later suggests that chassis and suspension components are beginning to show their age and may require ongoing monitoring or remedial attention in the near term. With 130,398 miles recorded on an eleven-year-old vehicle, the Qashqai has covered approximately 11,854 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for its age and engine class. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record that would suggest long periods of standing or storage, and equally no evidence of unusually rapid mileage accumulation. This consistent year-on-year usage means wear-related components such as the clutch, drivetrain, braking system, and suspension have been worked regularly rather than left to deteriorate through inactivity. That said, a vehicle of this age and mileage has almost certainly seen replacement of major service items, so it is important to verify that the timing belt or chain, dependent on the specific engine variant, has been addressed in line with manufacturer intervals, along with coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid changes where applicable. The most significant item in the history is the Major failure recorded on 8 August 2025 for an excessively worn nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint, which is a safety-critical component directly affecting steering precision, wheel alignment, and tyre wear. A prospective buyer should physically inspect both front lower arms and their ball joints for perished or split boots, excess play when the wheel is rocked by hand at the three and nine o'clock positions, and any uneven or feathered wear on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres, which would indicate compromised geometry. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock manoeuvres, as these are classic symptoms of worn ball joints or deteriorating bushes. Given that the offside rear lower suspension arm is now showing corrosion per the latest advisory, it would be prudent to jack the vehicle and visually check all suspension arms, subframe mounting points, and anti-roll bar links for advanced surface corrosion or movement, as corrosion on these components tends to progress once initiated. Beyond the recorded defects, several age- and mileage-appropriate inspections should form part of any test drive or physical assessment. Tyres should be checked closely for both tread depth and sidewall condition, as eleven-year-old rubber is prone to perishing and cracking regardless of remaining tread, and the 2023 advisory for front tyres worn close to the legal limit and on the edge suggests alignment or suspension issues may have already been influencing wear patterns. The braking system should be evaluated for shudder or pulsation through the steering wheel under firm braking, which may indicate warped front discs, and the rear calipers should be checked for binding after the vehicle has been driven, as standing or lightly used calipers can seize. Under the bonnet, inspect the twelve-volt battery for date codes and any signs of corrosion around the terminals, given the vehicle's age, and verify fluid levels and condition. Finally, request evidence of a complete service history, ensuring that recent work has addressed the suspension components flagged in the MOT record, and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection to confirm the structural integrity of the corroded rear arm and the condition of the front suspension following its recent repair.