2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · DL18 FWS

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 11 May 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, marking a return to a clean test sheet after the previous year's minor issue. Looking at the broader trajectory across the available DVSA records, the trend appears generally stable and well maintained. The 2023 and 2025 tests passed without comment, and the single advisory raised in 2024 was a relatively minor brake wear observation. The only recorded failure occurred on 20 May 2024 due to a fractured offside rear coil spring, but the vehicle was presented again just two days later on 22 May 2024 and passed, indicating the defect was rectified promptly. This pattern suggests the owner has been attentive to mechanical condition rather than allowing issues to accumulate or deteriorate between tests. With approximately 78,454 miles recorded over eight years, the vehicle is averaging around 9,807 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a family crossover of this type and age. There is no evidence of exceptionally high accumulation that would disproportionately stress the engine, transmission, or drivetrain components, nor is there any indication of extended standing periods that can lead to brake seizure or fluid degradation. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent and regular, supporting the conclusion that the vehicle has been in steady, active use. This kind of usage generally promotes healthier operation of seals, gaskets, and moving parts compared to vehicles that sit idle for long stretches, though it does mean consumable wear on suspension and braking components remains a normal consideration at this mileage level. That said, the 2024 advisory and failure deserve particular attention from a prospective buyer. The fractured offside rear coil spring was a structural and safety-critical defect, and while it was clearly replaced prior to the retest, it is worth confirming that the repair used a quality component and that the opposite side spring has been inspected, as coil springs often fail in pairs due to shared fatigue. On a test drive, listen for any remaining clonks or knocking from the rear suspension over bumps, particularly on uneven surfaces, and check for uneven settling at the rear when the vehicle is parked on level ground. The rear brake pad advisory indicates the pads were approaching the end of their useful life in mid-2024, so by now they will almost certainly require replacement. Listen for brake squeal on light application and watch for any rear brake shudder or pulling, and inspect the rear discs for lipping or corrosion given that pad wear has been progressing. Beyond the documented history, the buyer should carry out a number of age- and mileage-appropriate checks. The tyres should be examined closely for both tread depth and, importantly, sidewall condition, as tyres fitted some years ago may be suffering from perishing or cracking due to age regardless of remaining tread. Examine the brake discs for signs of surface corrosion or pitting, particularly if the vehicle has been standing through recent wet periods. Given its age, the 12V battery should be tested for cranking strength, as batteries beyond five years often show reduced reliability. The vehicle's service book should be verified for timely changes of engine oil and filter, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, all of which degrade on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage, and fresh evidence of these services would give further confidence that the Qashqai has been conscientiously looked after.