2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · AP09 HMF

The most recent DVSA test on 24 October 2025 recorded a PASS, albeit with a number of minor advisories covering the side repeaters, rear registration plate, front sub‑frame bush, rear brake pipe and front tyre wear. Compared with the preceding three‑year record, which contained several fails for critical suspension ball‑joints, a non‑functioning windscreen wiper and numerous track‑rod defects, the trend can be described as cautiously improving – the vehicle now clears the MOT but the persistence of similar advisory items indicates that underlying wear has not been fully addressed. At 109 090 miles the Qashqai has logged roughly 6 400 miles per annum over its 17‑year life, a usage pattern that sits comfortably within the average for a family SUV of this age. There are no obvious long‑term mileage gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, nor any evidence of accelerated accumulation that would normally accelerate wear on engine, transmission or suspension components. Consequently the mileage itself does not raise immediate red flags, but the relatively low annual distance does mean that age‑related degradation – such as rubber hardening, corrosion and fluid breakdown – is likely to be as significant as the wear accrued from mileage. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension assembly. The repeated advisories for worn sub‑frame bushes and the 2025 failure noting an off‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint on the verge of detachment suggest that the front sub‑frame bushings and ball‑joints may be approaching the end of their service life. On a test drive listen for clunking or knocking when navigating bumps, and feel for any looseness or wandering in the steering column, especially under braking. The near‑side front track‑rod end ball joint, flagged as excessively worn in several tests, should be inspected for play and replaced if any movement is detectable. The rear brake pipe corrosion, recorded on both sides, warrants a visual check for rust, grease contamination or leakage, and the thin rear brake pads noted in 2023 should be measured; excessive pad wear can lead to disc scoring and reduced braking efficiency. Front tyres were reported as close to the legal limit and showing edge wear; confirm tread depth, sidewall integrity and look for cracking that can arise from age rather than use. Finally, the non‑functional windscreen wiper and the side repeaters flagged in the latest test must be repaired to meet safety standards. Beyond the specific fault history, the vehicle’s age means that time‑related maintenance is essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for perishing or dry‑rot, particularly on the inner edges where cracking is common on older low‑mileage tyres. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery – a load test or a check of the electrolyte level (if applicable) will reveal whether it can sustain a full winter start. Inspect all fluid reservoirs for colour and level; engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid should be changed at least every 24 months regardless of mileage. Look for signs of corrosion on the front sub‑frame, exhaust brackets and under‑body panels, especially where the heat‑shield was previously noted resting on the back box. A thorough service book review, confirming regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service and any previous suspension component replacements, will give the buyer confidence that the Qashqai’s mechanical health is being managed proactively.