2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · DP13 BKE

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 19 September 2025, although the certificate includes advisories for slight movement in both front track rod ends and the nearside front lower ball joint. Evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle appears to be entering a period of increased mechanical wear. While the history shows several years of clean MOT results, the recent emergence of steering and suspension advisories, following a 2022 advisory regarding ball joint covers, suggests that these components are progressively degrading and will soon require replacement to maintain roadworthiness and steering precision. The recorded mileage of 120,793 miles for a thirteen-year-old vehicle equates to an annual average of approximately 9,300 miles. This is considered typical usage for a vehicle of this class, suggesting a consistent driving pattern rather than extreme high-mileage heavy use or the potential issues associated with very low-mileage vehicles that sit idle for long periods. This moderate usage profile means that while major drivetrain components may still be robust, you should anticipate standard wear on consumable items such as suspension bushes, brake components, and various rubber seals. On your test drive, you should be particularly vigilant regarding the steering and front-end stability. Listen for any knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as these are primary symptoms of worn ball joints or track rod ends. You should also check for any steering wander or a lack of precision in the steering response, which would indicate that the reported movement in the track rod ends has become more pronounced. Furthermore, inspect the front tyres for uneven wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, as worn steering components often cause incorrect toe or camber settings. Given the previous advisory concerning rear brake pad wear, it is vital to inspect the current state of the braking system. Check for any brake shudder or vibration through the pedal when braking, which could indicate worn or warped discs, and listen for any scraping sounds that might suggest thin pads or binding calipers. Additionally, because of the vehicle's age, you should inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing and confirm that the service history supports regular fluid changes, specifically brake fluid and engine coolant, which are critical for long-term reliability regardless of annual mileage.