2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · 22 LCP

The most recent MOT test conducted on 2026-03-20 resulted in a passing outcome, but this follows a pattern of significant failures over the past three years, indicating a concerning trend rather than a return to stability. The vehicle’s most critical issues—particularly the fractured offside rear coil spring and severely deteriorated constant velocity (CV) joint boots—were confirmed as major defects in 2026, with the CV boots failing to prevent dirt ingress and the coil spring completely compromised. These failures suggest either chronic neglect of routine maintenance or underlying mechanical wear that has progressed beyond the point where minor interventions could have delayed further deterioration. The presence of an advisory for a nail in the offside tyre and near-side tyre wear close to the legal limit further underscores the need for immediate attention to tyre safety and alignment, which may have been exacerbated by the suspension issues. While the 2024 and 2023 MOTs were clean, the intervening failures imply that the vehicle’s structural and drivetrain integrity has been compromised, warranting a thorough inspection before purchase. The recorded mileage of 83,416 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents an average annual usage of around 8,342 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the consistency of mileage accumulation does not necessarily correlate with maintenance discipline; the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2023 and 2025—suggest periods of either reduced usage or potential neglect. For a suspension system and CV joints, which are critical for drivetrain efficiency and safety, such extended intervals without inspection can accelerate wear, especially if the vehicle was left stationary for prolonged periods, leading to standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and mechanical stress. The CV joint failures, in particular, may have been accelerated by improper lubrication or exposure to road debris, while the coil spring fracture indicates either a manufacturing defect or cumulative stress from uneven load distribution. Given the vehicle’s history of critical MOT failures, the prospective buyer must prioritise a comprehensive mechanical inspection before purchase. The fractured offside rear coil spring is a major structural concern, as it compromises the vehicle’s ride height, handling stability, and load-bearing integrity. During a test drive, listen for excessive clunking or rattling from the rear suspension, particularly when transitioning over bumps or uneven surfaces, as this may indicate further spring or bush wear. The CV joint failures necessitate immediate attention to the front driveshafts, as leaking or damaged boots can lead to premature bearing failure, increased vibration at highway speeds, and potential transmission damage if the joint seals are breached. Inspect the CV boots visually for grease leaks and check for play in the driveshafts by applying gentle lateral pressure while the engine is running—excessive movement or whining noises signal further deterioration. Beyond the mechanical issues, the tyre conditions present additional red flags. The near-side tyre has a deep cut reaching the ply, which is a safety hazard and requires immediate replacement, while the offside tyre is worn to within 1.6mm of the legal limit, particularly on the inner and outer edges, indicating uneven wear patterns. Uneven tyre wear often correlates with suspension misalignment or camber issues, which may have been exacerbated by the coil spring fracture. Test the vehicle’s handling by driving at moderate speeds and noting any lateral pull, excessive steering wheel vibration, or uneven tyre wear progression. Additionally, the advisory for a nail in the tyre suggests a history of road debris exposure, which may have contributed to the CV joint and suspension failures. The buyer should also verify the vehicle’s service history for CV joint replacements, coil spring inspections, and any previous suspension work, as these records will provide insight into the maintenance record and potential underlying causes of the failures. In the absence of a service book, a thorough visual inspection of the CV boots, driveshafts, and suspension components is essential. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, a thorough wash and inspection for rust or fluid leaks is advisable before purchase.