2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · AM06 ART

A clear and recurring pattern of suspension corrosion has emerged across the MOT history of this 2012 Nissan Qashqai, and it is the defining mechanical concern for any prospective buyer. The most recent test on 17 March 2026 was a pass, but it carried advisories for both rear lower suspension arms showing corrosion not considered serious at that point. Looking back one year, the 28 March 2025 test also passed with a single advisory noting corrosion across all rear suspension arms, yet the very next day, on 27 March 2025, the vehicle was presented again and failed with two dangerous defects: both front inner suspension arm pins or bushes were deemed likely to become detached. Prior tests in March 2024 and March 2023 recorded no defects at all, which indicates that the deterioration of the suspension components has developed over a relatively short two-year window. The trajectory is therefore one of progressive structural decline rather than stable roadworthiness, with at least one episode where the car was failed on safety grounds before being returned with advisories rather than a clean sheet. The recorded mileage of 67,812 miles across roughly fourteen years equates to an average of about 4,844 miles annually, which is low for a vehicle of this age and type. There are no gaps in the annual testing record and no evidence of sharp mileage jumps between tests, with the odometer readings progressing in consistent increments consistent with genuine light use rather than clock anomalies. Lower annual accumulation generally reduces wear on high-mileage consumables such as brake discs, clutches and drivetrain components, but it also frequently correlates with extended periods of standing, short cold-start journeys and limited suspension cycling. For a Qashqai of this vintage, that usage profile tends to accelerate surface oxidation on exposed underbody components, particularly the suspension arms and bushes that have been the subject of advisories and failure items in this record. Given the documented front inner arm bush failures and the recurring rear arm corrosion advisories, the suspension is the priority area for any physical inspection. On a test drive, listen for clonking or rattling noises from the front end over uneven surfaces, speed humps and potholes, as worn or detaching inner arm pins commonly produce audible knocks that worsen as the joint loosens. Pay particular attention to vagueness or delay in steering response, any wandering or self-steering behaviour, and uneven or premature tyre wear on the inner or outer shoulders, all of which can indicate compromised front arm geometry. With the vehicle raised, inspect the front inner suspension arm pins and bushes closely for cracked rubber, separated bonding, excessive play, or visible movement between the pin and the surrounding metal. The rear lower arms, which have been flagged in three consecutive tests, should be examined for bubbling paint, flaking surface rust and any thinning of the metal, particularly around the mounting points and bush housings. Beyond the suspension, the absence of other advisory categories across the entire MOT history is notable, with no recorded concerns relating to braking components, exhaust emissions, corrosion of structural elements, or lighting and tyre condition. Nevertheless, a thirteen-year-old Qashqai with light annual use will warrant a thorough check of brake discs and pads for surface corrosion pitting, as standing moisture can lead to Judder or uneven braking feel on the first application. Inspect the underside for any oil misting from the engine or gearbox, and examine rubber components such as CV gaiters, anti-roll bar links and steering rack gaiters for perishing. Finally, given the progressive nature of the corrosion advisories, obtaining a structural inspection of the rear suspension subframe mounting points would be prudent before purchase, as surface corrosion on arms frequently progresses to the surrounding structure once it has been documented over consecutive tests.