2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · BD63 FCM

The most recent MOT history for this 2013 Nissan Qashqai reveals a concerning instability in roadworthiness, particularly in the final six months. The vehicle failed its test on 28 February 2026 at 69,888 miles before passing just four days later at the same mileage, a pattern that suggests either a technical oversight in the initial inspection or a last-minute correction of a critical but non-recorded fault. The previous clean pass in March 2025 at 64,499 miles indicates no defects were noted over a span of nearly a year, yet the abrupt failure and immediate pass in early 2026—without any recorded defects—raises suspicion of either a rushed assessment or a fault that was not properly addressed before the retest. The lack of specific advisories or defects in any of these tests means no clear mechanical trend is visible, but the repeated retesting within days is unusual and warrants further scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 69,897 miles over 13 years suggests unusually light usage, averaging just over 5,300 miles annually. This is well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age, implying prolonged periods of inactivity or limited use. The most notable gap occurs between the March 2024 tests, where the vehicle failed and then passed on the same day at 58,683 miles, suggesting either a brief period of movement or a test anomaly rather than sustained driving. Such low mileage could mean deferred maintenance, as components like suspension bushes, brake pads, and fluid systems may have deteriorated slowly without regular use, increasing the risk of sudden failure. Given the lack of recorded defects, a prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear items that often fail without warning. Focus on the suspension system—particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and dampers—for signs of corrosion or excessive play, as these are common failure points in lightly used vehicles. The braking system should be thoroughly checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the brake discs and callipers, especially if the vehicle was stored for extended periods. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, should be examined for hidden corrosion, as rust can compromise safety without immediate visual signs. Additionally, fluid levels and condition—brake fluid, power steering, and coolant—should be verified, as prolonged inactivity can lead to degradation or contamination. The absence of advisories in the MOT history does not guarantee these areas are sound, so a detailed mechanical assessment is essential.