2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · DP17 CFV

The latest MOT test on 2026-04-21 resulted in a passing grade, though it revealed two persistent advisories: an offside front tyre showing minor damage and all tyres worn close to the legal limit with edge wear, indicating uneven or aggressive use patterns. Comparing this to the previous failed MOT on 2026-04-18, the trend is concerning, as the vehicle’s condition has deteriorated significantly in just three months. The 2025 and earlier MOTs were clean, suggesting a period of relative stability, but the sudden failures in 2026 highlight either neglect or underlying mechanical wear progressing rapidly. The presence of major defects—specifically compromised ball joint dust covers on the front suspension—demonstrates a failure to address basic wear protection, which is critical for long-term structural integrity and roadworthiness. The recorded mileage of 67,753 miles for a nine-year-old Nissan Qashqai represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,528 miles per year, which is typical for its age and likely reflects a balanced driving pattern. However, the absence of service records or a clear maintenance schedule raises questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to consistent preventative care or if it has been driven under varying conditions—such as frequent short trips, which can accelerate fluid degradation and component wear. The mileage alone does not justify the severity of the recent MOT failures, as lower mileage vehicles can still exhibit critical issues from prolonged standing or neglect, particularly in suspension, brakes, and fluid systems. A thorough inspection is essential to address the immediate concerns highlighted in the MOT results. The offside rear brake pads being dangerously thin below 1.5 mm require immediate replacement to prevent brake failure, which could lead to a catastrophic loss of control. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, pulsations under braking, or a metallic scraping sound from the rear, which may indicate warped discs or worn pads. The compromised ball joint dust covers on both the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage and the front suspension wishbone suggest severe dirt ingress, leading to accelerated wear in the ball joints. Inspect for clunks or rattles in the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, and check for play or binding in the steering wheel when the vehicle is stationary—signs of failing joints. Additionally, visually inspect the suspension for excessive sagging, cracked or worn bushes, or rusted components, as these can compromise handling and safety. For the tyres, the advisories about edge wear and near-legal limits warrant immediate attention. Uneven tyre wear often points to alignment issues, suspension misalignment, or incorrect tyre pressures, which can lead to poor handling, increased fuel consumption, and reduced tyre lifespan. Check tyre pressure and alignment during the inspection, and replace the tyres promptly to avoid further damage to the vehicle’s chassis or increased risk of hydroplaning. The vehicle’s age and the recent MOT history suggest that time-based servicing of fluids—such as the brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant—should be prioritised, as these can degrade over time even with moderate mileage. A professional should verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged standing or neglect can lead to corrosion or internal failure, which may not be apparent during a test drive but could cause starting issues or electrical system failures. Lastly, verify that the service book has been updated, as the lack of recorded maintenance suggests potential gaps in critical inspections, such as exhaust emissions testing, which may have been affected by the recent failures.