2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · AD16 FAM

A clean DVSA history across four consecutive passes, with the most recent test on 16 July 2025 returning no advisories or defects, presents a reassuringly straightforward mechanical picture for this ten year old Qashqai. The earlier failure dated 10 August 2022 was logged without any recorded defects, which indicates a straightforward refusal rather than a component specific failure, suggesting the vehicle likely passed within five days at the subsequent test. Across the five documented tests, the record shows no advisories relating to corrosion, suspension components, brake wear, or exhaust integrity, which is a notably strong outcome given the age of the vehicle. The overall trajectory is therefore one of consistent roadworthiness with no documented deterioration between tests. Annual mileage sits at roughly 7,541 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and confirms regular rather than extreme use. The mileage progression from year to year would need cross referencing with V5 records, but the absence of any unusual gaps in testing and the steady accumulation implied by the dates suggest the car has been driven consistently rather than left standing for extended periods. For a Qashqai of this age, average usage means that the major mechanical consumables, including brake discs, pads, suspension bushes, and the timing chain or belt depending on engine variant, should be inspected for wear consistent with the mileage rather than the calendar age. Given that the MOT record contains no advisories whatsoever, there is no specific component history to target, but a prospective buyer should still verify the items most commonly flagged on Qashqais of this generation. On the test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly indicative of worn anti roll bar bushes, drop links, or front strut top mounts, all known wear points on this chassis. Apply the brakes firmly from speed and feel for any judder through the pedal, which would suggest warped front discs, a frequent replacement item on higher mileage examples. Inspect the underside for any surface corrosion on subframe mounting points, brake pipes running along the chassis, and the rear suspension trailing arm bushes, areas where rust can develop on northern UK vehicles used through winter. Check the steering for any vagueness or knocking on full lock, which on Qashqais can point to worn tie rod ends or power steering rack issues. Verify that all warning lamps extinguish promptly after start up, that the CVT or manual transmission engages smoothly without flare or slip, and that the diesel particulate filter has completed recent regeneration cycles if fitted. Finally, confirm service history documentation, particularly evidence of cambelt replacement at the manufacturer specified interval, as this is the single most significant scheduled maintenance item on a ten year old Qashqai and its absence materially affects the vehicle long term reliability.