2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · CU09 NHT

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 15 August 2023 resulted in a pass, but this outcome should be viewed with considerable caution because a separate test on the same date recorded multiple dangerous and major defects. The vehicle was failed for dangerously worn front and rear brake pads measuring less than 1.5 mm, a nearside front track rod end ball joint with excessive play, a non-functioning nearside front dipped beam headlamp, and a nearside rear direction indicator adversely affected by another lamp. The recurrence of steering component failure across consecutive tests is particularly noteworthy, as the offside front track rod end ball joint was also flagged with excessive play in August 2022, suggesting that the steering and suspension system has not been comprehensively addressed. An advisory for corrosion to rear suspension components was also raised in 2022 and should be considered ongoing. Overall, the maintenance trend is deteriorating rather than stable, with two consecutive annual failures involving serious safety-related items indicating deferred or incomplete remedial work. The recorded mileage of 72,054 miles over approximately 17 years equates to a very low annual usage of around 4,238 miles, which is significantly below the national average for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage can indicate either a predominantly short-journey urban use pattern, extended periods of standing, or a combination of both. Mechanically, this usage profile raises specific concerns. Light, infrequent use tends to promote corrosion on brake discs due to lack of regular cleaning action, moisture accumulation in the exhaust system leading to premature internal rusting, and accelerated degradation of brake fluid through hygroscopic water absorption over time. Extended standing periods also increase the likelihood of binding brake calipers, perished rubber components, and 12V battery deterioration through chronic undercharging. Given the recurring steering and braking defects recorded on this Qashqai, a prospective buyer should commission an independent inspection with particular attention to the steering and suspension system. The track rod end ball joints on both sides have failed within a twelve-month period, which suggests the possibility of underlying wear in adjacent steering components such as the inner tie rods, drop links, and bushes. A test drive should be conducted over varied surfaces to listen for any clonking, knocking, or rattling from the front end, particularly when traversing speed bumps or turning at low speed, and any vagueness or wander in the steering response should be taken as a serious concern. The brake system also warrants thorough examination; even though the dangerously thin pads would have been replaced to achieve the pass, a buyer should verify the condition of the brake discs for lipping, scoring, or corrosion, check that the calipers are retracting correctly without binding, and confirm the age and condition of the brake fluid, which on a vehicle of this age is almost certainly due for renewal regardless of mileage. Additionally, the headlamp and indicator electrical faults should be properly diagnosed, as water ingress or deteriorated connectors on a seventeen-year-old vehicle can produce intermittent lighting failures that may not be immediately apparent during an MOT. Beyond the recorded defects, the calendar age and low-mileage profile necessitate a careful physical inspection of several age-related items. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by UV exposure and age rather than tread wear, and the date code on the sidewall should be checked as tyres over six years old typically require replacement regardless of remaining tread. All underbody components, particularly the rear suspension area flagged for corrosion in 2022, should be inspected for advanced rust that could compromise structural integrity, and the exhaust system should be checked for internal corrosion and potential mounting failures. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as prolonged standing periods significantly reduce battery lifespan, and the timing belt or chain service interval should be verified against the manufacturer's schedule, as this is a calendar-based replacement on many vehicles regardless of mileage. Finally, a comprehensive service history should be requested to confirm that time-sensitive items such as coolant, automatic transmission fluid if applicable, and spark plugs have been renewed in line with age rather than purely mileage-based intervals.