2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · DV09 LPF

The Nissan Qashqai presented in the October 2021 MOT tests shows an unusual but ultimately stable roadworthiness profile, given the two consecutive tests within days of each other—one a pass, the other a fail—with no defects recorded in either. This suggests the failure was likely administrative, such as missing documentation or a minor procedural oversight rather than a mechanical issue. The absence of advisories or defects in the most recent test indicates no immediate concerns were identified at 140,665–140,671 miles, though the lack of a subsequent MOT since then means the vehicle’s condition cannot be verified beyond this point. For a car of this age and mileage, the clean record is better than expected, but the gap of over four years without an MOT raises questions about ongoing maintenance. The mileage accumulation of 140,671 miles over 17 years aligns closely with average usage for its class, averaging roughly 8,275 miles annually—a figure that suggests consistent but not excessive driving. The two tests in late October 2021, separated by just six miles, imply the vehicle was likely stationary for some time before or after that period, possibly due to ownership changes or storage. There are no signs of rapid mileage accumulation or neglectful usage patterns, though the prolonged MOT gap means critical wear—such as tyre condition, brake fluid age, or suspension degradation—cannot be confirmed. Without further recent tests, a buyer should treat the last known state as a baseline rather than a current assessment. Given the sparse MOT history, a prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of key wear items that typically degrade over time without regular testing. The brakes, including caliper operation and disc thickness, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary. Suspension components—such as coil springs, bushings, and ball joints—may have deteriorated beyond MOT thresholds, especially if the car has been driven on uneven roads. Tyre condition, including tread depth and sidewall integrity, is critical, as is the state of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion. Structural rust, particularly in wheel arches or sills, should be examined closely, as this can compromise safety and longevity. The absence of defects in the last recorded MOT is encouraging, but the extended period without testing introduces uncertainty. A buyer should verify that all advisories from previous tests—even if none were recorded in 2021—have been addressed, and consider a full service history check to confirm regular maintenance. The vehicle’s age and mileage suggest it may now require more frequent inspections than it has received, particularly if it has been used irregularly. Without recent professional oversight, some wear items may have exceeded safe limits.