2014 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · AF64 XAC

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 27 July 2026, although this followed a failure caused by a serious fluid leak from the nearside front shock absorber and incorrect headlamp aim. When evaluating the broader history, the maintenance trend suggests a vehicle that has been generally well-kept but is now entering a phase of age-related suspension degradation. While there were clean passes between 2022 and 2025, the recurrence of suspension-related advisories and the recent major failure indicate that the front end is beginning to wear out and requires proactive attention. With a recorded mileage of 75,042 miles over approximately twelve years, the vehicle has averaged around 6,254 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a family crossover and suggests a balanced duty cycle without the extreme wear associated with high-mileage motorway use or the stagnation issues common in very low-mileage examples. Mechanically, this mileage implies that while the engine and drivetrain should remain robust, the rubber components, bushings, and suspension mounts are reaching the end of their natural service life due to calendar age and cumulative road stress. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front suspension system. The recent advisories regarding the Macpherson strut pins, bushes, and anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, combined with the previous notes on lower suspension arm bushes and track rod ends, point to a comprehensive need for front-end refurbishment. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. Any vague steering feel or instability under braking may indicate that these worn components are affecting the vehicle's alignment and handling. Beyond the suspension, the history of headlamp aim failures suggests a need to verify the electrical and adjustment settings of the lighting system. Given the vehicle's age, it is essential to inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion and ensure the calipers are not binding, which can occur if the car has spent periods of time stationary. You should also verify the service history to ensure that engine oil, coolant, and brake fluids have been changed according to the manufacturer's time-based intervals rather than just mileage, as fluid degradation occurs regardless of distance travelled. Finally, check the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur on vehicles of this age even if the tread depth remains legal.