2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · DN16 SJO

A clear pattern of front suspension wear emerges from the MOT history of this 2016 Nissan Qashqai, with the front lower suspension arm inner bushes repeatedly flagged as cracking and splitting across consecutive tests, escalating to severely deteriorated ball joint dust covers by the 2026 inspection. The most recent test on 26 March 2026 recorded a pass but retained all four of these front suspension advisories from the previous year, indicating progressive wear rather than a resolved issue. The rear braking system has followed a similarly deteriorating trajectory: advisories for thinning rear pads and corroded rear inner brake discs first appeared in March 2025, and by the failed test on 25 March 2026 the rear pads had worn below the 1.5 mm threshold, resulting in a Dangerous failure category. This pattern suggests a vehicle whose consumable and chassis components are now reaching a stage where replacement is due rather than advisory, with the rear brake discs having been on watch for corrosion and pitting for at least two cycles. Annual mileage of roughly 9,800 miles over the vehicle's ten-year life is broadly typical for a family crossover of this age, so there is no evidence of long periods off the road or unusually heavy use that would distort the wear pattern. The MOT testing has been conducted consistently on an annual basis since at least 2021, giving a continuous record without significant gaps, and the steady year-on-year mileage progression aligns with the gradual accrual of suspension and brake wear visible in the advisories. At 98,322 miles the drivetrain has covered sufficient ground for normal mid-life wear to be expected on items like engine mounts, CV joint boots, and exhaust mounting rubbers, even though none of these have yet been flagged. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension during a test drive. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front wheels when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces, which would indicate the inner front suspension arm bushes have worn beyond their advisory state and require replacement. On a stationary check, attempt to rock each front wheel at the top and bottom while watching for play at the lower suspension arm joints, as the deteriorated ball joint dust covers mean the joints are now exposed to dirt and moisture intrusion. Test the steering for any vagueness, knocking through the rack, or uneven self-centring, and check that the front tyres are wearing evenly across their tread rather than feathering on the edges, which would confirm the tracking geometry is being affected by bush movement. For the rear braking system, the test drive should include several firm stops from around 30 mph to check for any vibration or judder through the brake pedal, as the previously pitted and corroded rear inner brake discs may now be warped enough to be felt under braking. Listen for any scraping or grinding noise from the rear wheels which would indicate pads have again worn close to metal. On the visual inspection, examine the rear brake discs through the wheel spokes for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and surface rust scoring, and confirm the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on a slope. A thorough inspection on a ramp is advisable to assess the rear brake pipes, fuel lines, and subframe mounting points for corrosion, given the vehicle's age and coastal road exposure risk, and to verify whether the inner front suspension arm bushes have indeed progressed to requiring replacement before purchase.