2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · AP10 CCO

The most recent DVSA examination on 30 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, although two advisories were recorded concerning the front brake discs and front brake pads, indicating that while the components remained within legal limits at the time of test, they were nearing the threshold for replacement. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the overall maintenance trend appears largely stable with intermittent lapses; the vehicle passed cleanly in 2020, 2021, and 2024, but suffered a failure in October 2023 for an ineffective front wiper and excessive play in the offside front track rod end ball joint. Notably, the same track rod end was flagged with slight play as an advisory in 2022, which suggests a progressive deterioration of that component over a roughly twelve-month period before it ultimately failed. The pattern indicates that wear-related advisories on steering and braking components are beginning to surface more frequently as the vehicle accumulates mileage and age. With 97,043 miles recorded over a sixteen-year service life, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,065 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage and consistent with mixed urban and suburban usage. There are no extreme gaps in the MOT testing cadence, and the mileage accumulation appears steady rather than erratic, which is generally favourable for assessing mechanical wear. However, even at average annual mileage, a sixteen-year-old Qashqai will have experienced considerable cumulative stress on its suspension, drivetrain, and rubber components. Prospective buyers should recognise that typical wear items including suspension bushes, coil springs, anti-roll bar links, and engine mountings may now be approaching the latter stages of their service life, particularly given the higher-mileage intervals between replacements that often accompany vehicles of this age. Given the advisory entries recorded at the 2025 test, particular attention should be directed toward the front braking system during a physical inspection and test drive. The front discs and pads should be visually checked for remaining thickness; if the pads are described as wearing thin, replacement is likely imminent and should be factored into any purchase negotiation. On a road test, listen for any brake shudder, squeal, or grinding noise that may indicate the discs have worn beyond their service limit or developed lipping. The front brake calipers and slider mechanisms should also be inspected for smooth operation and any signs of binding or seized pistons, as standing periods or infrequent use can accelerate corrosion on caliper slides. Additionally, the steering system warrants careful assessment given the history of track rod end play; with the engine running and the vehicle stationary, turn the steering lock to lock and listen for any knocking or clonking noises, and check for uneven tyre wear on the front pair, which would confirm ongoing deterioration of the steering linkage or worn suspension components. Beyond the recorded defects, age-related items warrant thorough scrutiny during any viewing. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by age-related rubber degradation, even if tread depth remains adequate, as tyres older than six years may require replacement regardless of wear. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking performance and resting voltage, given that batteries in vehicles of this age frequently fail without warning. Coolant and brake fluid should be checked for evidence of recent replacement, since both fluids degrade over time and should generally be renewed on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Underbonnet checks should include inspecting the cam belt or timing chain service history, as the Qashqai of this era fitted with the 1.5 or 1.6 diesel or 1.6 petrol engine has defined replacement intervals that are critical to engine longevity. Finally, examine the underbody and wheel arches for any signs of corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, subframe connections, and brake line runs, as standing exposure to winter road conditions can compromise structural integrity on older vehicles.