2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · DX13 THF

The 2013 Nissan Qashqai presents a pattern of recurring failures rather than a consistently clean roadworthiness record, with three separate failed MOT tests between late 2023 and early 2025 followed by a single passing result in October 2025. While the most recent test on 2025-10-01 achieved a pass, this came after two consecutive failures where critical systems were compromised including non-functional exterior lighting, compromised suspension hardware at the front, and tyre-related concerns that required attention. The presence of both minor cosmetic advisories and major functional failures indicates that while the vehicle may have passed the initial checks, underlying mechanical issues persisted throughout the ownership period despite intervening assessments. At 102,694 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years, the recorded mileage represents a reasonable annual accumulation rate of around 7,900 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage patterns for this model class and does not immediately suggest extreme wear. However, the gap between the 2024-10-10 pass and the subsequent 2025-09-30 failure spans nearly four months, during which no MOT was recorded, potentially allowing accumulated wear to progress unchecked. The 2025-09-30 failure specifically noted an under-inflated rear tyre and non-functional front lighting circuits, suggesting that even when the vehicle cleared its test, certain systems remained unreliable until the next assessment cycle. The front suspension system warrants particular scrutiny given the 2024-10-09 failure that identified excessive play in the front track rod end ball joints and a damaged dust cover preventing debris ingress. On a test drive, the buyer should pay close attention to whether the front suspension feels loose or produces a pungent noise when traversing bumps, and watch for any grinding or clunking sounds when turning at speed, as excessive play in the track rods can manifest as chassis vibration or uneven ride quality. Additionally, the 2025-10-01 report highlighted a worn front suspension arm pin or bush, so inspecting the arm for visible wear, looseness, or unusual play could reveal continued degradation of this linkage. The light system failures documented in both the 2025-09-30 and 2025-10-01 tests indicate potential reliability issues with the front position lamp circuit and the front dipped-beam headlamp assembly, meaning the buyer should verify that all exterior lights operate correctly before committing. The tyre history is equally significant, with the 2024-10-10 pass showing normal conditions but the 2025-09-30 failure revealing a nearside rear tyre that was either cracking or perishing and a front tyre worn to within 1.8mm of the legal minimum edge width, which suggests progressive tyre deterioration that may require replacement regardless of current legality. A practical test would involve driving the vehicle on varied surfaces and listening for any whine or thump over bumps, as worn tyres and compromised suspension components often produce distinct audible cues that signal remaining life.