2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · DN18 FDJ

The vehicle achieved an MOT pass on 27 April 2026 with no advisories or defects recorded, which represents a clean current roadworthiness position. However, this pass follows a failed test just nine days earlier on 18 April 2026, where three major defects were identified relating to the supplementary restraint system warning lamp, the anti-lock braking system warning lamp, and the electronic stability control warning lamp. The rapid turnaround between the failure and subsequent pass suggests the issues were rectified quickly, potentially via a software reset, sensor replacement, or wiring repair, but the underlying cause warrants verification with the seller. Reviewing the broader pattern, the 2025 test also recorded an SRS warning lamp failure that was later cleared on the same day, indicating a recurring issue with the safety system warning circuit. The presence of repeated brake pad advisories across both front and rear axles over the 2024 and 2026 tests demonstrates a clear trend of progressive pad wear, which is expected behaviour but confirms the braking consumables are approaching or have reached replacement thresholds. With 55,828 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has covered around 6,978 miles annually, which sits squarely within typical usage parameters for a family crossover of this age. There is no evidence of significant mileage gaps between test entries that might suggest extended periods of standing, nor any indication of abnormally high accumulation that would point to motorway fleet use. This average annual mileage implies reasonable but consistent wear on mechanical components, with the brake, tyre, and suspension consumables having experienced steady but moderate usage. The relatively moderate mileage is favourable for the longevity of internal drivetrain components, though it does not exempt the vehicle from age-related deterioration of rubber, plastic, and electrical items. Given the recurring supplementary restraint system, ABS, and electronic stability control warning lamp faults, a prospective buyer should prioritise a pre-purchase diagnostic scan using manufacturer-level equipment to confirm there are no stored fault codes relating to the airbag system, ABS wheel speed sensors, yaw sensors, or steering angle sensors. Common causes on this generation of Qashqai include deteriorated ABS sensor wiring due to underbody exposure, failing steering angle sensors, and intermittent airbag squib or seatbelt pretensioner connector faults. On a test drive, pay close attention to whether any of these warning lamps illuminate during startup, remain lit whilst driving, or flash intermittently, particularly over uneven road surfaces which can highlight loose connectors or wiring faults. Additionally, request evidence of the rectification work carried out after the April 2026 failure, including any invoice from the garage and confirmation that the warning lamp issue has been fully resolved rather than temporarily cleared. Regarding the brake pad condition, an advisory was issued at the most recent failed inspection, indicating the rear pads were wearing thin, and combined with the 2024 advisories on both axles, fresh pads may now be fitted but this should be confirmed via physical inspection and a service history check. On the test drive, listen for any brake squeal, grinding, or shudder under firm pedal pressure, and verify that the vehicle pulls neither left nor right under braking which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. Beyond the documented MOT items, given the vehicle's age and eight-year service life, particular attention should be paid to tyre sidewalls for age perishing and cracking, brake discs for lipping or surface corrosion from standing, the 12-volt battery health which typically requires replacement around this age, and the condition of all fluid systems including engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable. Verify that the cambelt and water pump have been replaced at the manufacturer-recommended interval, and inspect the underside for any signs of fluid leakage, corroded exhaust components, or worn suspension bushes which commonly deteriorate on Qashqais operating in this mileage bracket.