2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · DP17 CSO

The latest MOT test for the 2017 Nissan Qashqai on 2026-05-20 resulted in a clean pass, indicating the vehicle has met all current roadworthiness standards without any recorded defects. However, the prior MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring advisories and a single major failure, which suggests that while the vehicle has been maintained to pass inspections, underlying issues may have been present but not critical at the time of testing. The major failure in 2024—indicating a malfunctioning Engine Management System (ECU) or related wiring harness—demands immediate attention, as persistent MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) issues often point to deeper electrical or mechanical problems that can escalate into costly repairs if ignored. The absence of defects in the most recent test does not negate the need for thorough pre-purchase inspection, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the history of wear-related advisories. The recorded mileage of 60,981 miles for a nine-year-old Qashqai represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,776 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this model. However, the consistency of mileage accumulation—without significant long-term gaps—suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, which accelerates wear on critical components such as brakes, tyres, suspension, and drivetrain elements. The presence of advisories for thin brake pads in prior MOTs indicates that the braking system has been under significant stress, potentially due to prolonged periods of heavy or frequent braking, which can lead to premature pad and disc wear. Additionally, the nearside and offside front tyres being worn close to the legal limit on edge suggest uneven tyre wear, which may stem from misalignment, incorrect wheel balancing, or suspension issues that require further investigation. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to address the unresolved Engine Management System issue, as this could be linked to wiring, sensor failure, or a failing ECU. On a test drive, listen for unusual electrical noises, such as clicking or whining from the engine bay, which may indicate a faulty relay or wiring problem. Check for any persistent engine performance anomalies, such as rough idling, stalling, or reduced power, which could confirm the MIL’s validity. During the inspection, verify that the brake system is functioning smoothly, checking for brake pedal softness, excessive travel, or vibration, which could signal worn pads, binding calipers, or warped discs. Inspect the suspension for excessive clunking or rattling, particularly around the front wheels, as this may indicate worn suspension bushes, coil springs, or damaged control arms. Additionally, confirm that the tyres are properly inflated and free from significant lateral wear patterns, as the prior MOT advisories suggest potential alignment or camber issues. For the broader physical condition of the vehicle, given its age and the advisories recorded, the buyer should conduct a visual and functional check of the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety. Inspect the battery for signs of corrosion around terminals, as prolonged standing or infrequent use can lead to battery degradation or failure, particularly in a nine-year-old vehicle. Check the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, noting that these fluids should be replaced or refreshed according to manufacturer recommendations, even if the vehicle has been driven regularly. Finally, verify that the service history is complete, with stamps or records for essential maintenance such as timing belt replacement (if applicable), spark plugs, and suspension component servicing, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, the buyer should also inspect for any signs of rust, particularly in the wheel arches, undercarriage, and around the rocker panels, as standing water or damp conditions can accelerate corrosion in older models.