2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · DF10 HHT

The most recent MOT test for this 2010 Nissan Qashqai was conducted on 2024-09-16 and resulted in a passing outcome, though it included an advisory regarding the handbrake travel. This follows a pattern of fluctuating test results over the past six years, with several failures in 2023—particularly concerning the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, which was classified as a dangerous defect due to a risk of detachment, and the offside front track rod end ball joint showing excessive play. While the 2022 and earlier MOTs were clean, the recurring advisories on ball joints and track rod ends suggest a persistent issue with the front suspension components, which may indicate wear progression or underlying structural fatigue. The 2023 failures also highlighted critical safety concerns, including rear brake pad thickness below the legal minimum and a damaged windscreen affecting visibility, which should not be overlooked during a thorough inspection. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 101,811 miles over roughly 16 years represents an average annual usage of approximately 6,363 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the presence of multiple MOT failures—particularly those linked to suspension and brake components—could imply either aggressive driving or prolonged periods of high stress on these systems. The significant gaps between MOT tests (e.g., from 2021 to 2023) suggest the vehicle may have been stored or used intermittently, which can exacerbate wear in components like ball joints and brake pads, as they may not have been maintained under optimal conditions. For a suspension system, this could lead to accelerated deterioration in bushings and linkages, while brake pads may wear unevenly if the vehicle was frequently driven at lower speeds or parked in standing conditions. Given the recurring suspension and brake advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the front suspension assembly, focusing on the track rod ends, ball joints, and anti-roll bar linkages. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or at low speeds, as these could indicate worn or failing ball joints or bushings. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the front tyres for signs of excessive lateral wear or cupping. The brake system should be thoroughly examined for binding calipers, excessive brake pedal travel, or a pulsating or shuddering sensation during braking, which could signal warped discs or worn pads. Additionally, visually inspect the rear suspension for any signs of play or excessive movement in the arms or linkages, and confirm that the handbrake engages smoothly without excessive travel or binding. For the brake system, the buyer should also verify the rear brake pads and discs, as the 2023 MOT failure highlighted pads below the legal minimum thickness. Replace the rear pads immediately if they are below 1.5 mm, as this poses a safety risk. The registration plate lamp and position lamps should be checked for functionality, and any damage to the windscreen should be repaired to restore full visibility. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a comprehensive service check, including fluid top-ups (brake, coolant, power steering, and transmission fluids), which should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 2 to 5 years, depending on the fluid type. The 12V battery should be tested for health, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as standing corrosion or internal degradation can lead to failure. Finally, inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles, and ensure they meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm, as cracked or perished sidewalls can compromise tyre integrity and safety.