2020 Nissan Qashqai 1.3L Petrol · CE20 FPT

The defining mechanical event in this Qashqai's recent history is a Dangerous brake pad failure recorded on 10 August 2026, where the rear pads were measured at less than 1.5 mm thick and presented an immediate risk, resulting in a failed test on the same date that a separate pass was also issued. This is the first recorded defect of substance in five years of MOT history and represents a sharp departure from what had been an unblemished record, with passes in 2023, 2024, and 2025 all returning either clean sheets or purely cosmetic advisories. The fact that the pads were allowed to wear to a dangerous state suggests either a missed service interval or a brake inspection that was not carried out between annual tests. Going forward, this single failure should be treated as a baseline requirement for immediate rectification, with a full check of the rear caliper slides, handbrake mechanism, and rear disc condition, as worn pads of this severity frequently coincide with scored discs and seized caliper guide pins. Against an age of roughly six years, the 62,997-mile recorded mileage equates to approximately 10,500 miles per annum, which sits broadly in line with typical UK usage for a family crossover of this type. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record, with annual tests consistently filed between 2023 and 2026, indicating the vehicle has remained in regular road use rather than being laid up. The mileage progression implied by the consecutive annual tests is steady rather than erratic, meaning the mechanical wear pattern should be proportionate to that accumulation rate. There is nothing in the recorded history to suggest a long stationary period, and the two early advisories relating to a buckled offside front rim and a nail in a nearside rear tyre are isolated incidents rather than indicators of a broader pattern of neglect. For a prospective test drive, particular attention should be paid to the rear braking system given the recent dangerous failure. Listen for any metallic squeal or grinding noise on initial application, and feel for a soft or inconsistent pedal travel, both of which would indicate that pad replacement was either carried out poorly or that the hydraulic system was not fully inspected. On the road, test the handbrake for adequate holding force on an incline, as rear drum-in-hat or caliper handbrake mechanisms can seize if the pads have been allowed to wear excessively. Pull away sharply in first and second gear to load the rear axle, feeling for any pulling to one side which could point to a binding caliper following pad replacement, and listen for any clonking or rattling from the rear hubs which can suggest worn caliper carriers or loose backing plates. The 2023 advisories concerning the buckled offside front rim and the nail in the nearside rear tyre should also be physically verified, even though these are now three years old. The buckled rim, if still in service, can cause persistent tyre pressure loss, uneven tread wear across the front axle, and vibration through the steering wheel at speed, so check both front tyres for matching wear patterns and inner-edge feathering. Confirm that a quality repair was carried out on the nearside rear puncture and inspect the sidewall for scarring or bulging which can lead to sudden failure. Finally, given the vehicle's age and mileage, a precautionary inspection of the coil springs, suspension arms, and drop links for any knocking over uneven surfaces, along with a check for early surface corrosion on the underbody and brake lines, would be prudent before committing to purchase.