2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · EU16 OJB

The most recent MOT on 10 July 2026 resulted in a failure, the examiner citing a dangerous condition on the rear brake system – both discs were reported as worn, pitted or scored and the rear brake pads were measured at less than 1.5 mm thickness. The earlier tests in 2025, 2024 and 2023 all passed without recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle’s condition has begun to deteriorate after a period of relative stability. The emergence of a serious brake fault suggests a worsening trend that needs immediate remedial attention before the car can be considered road‑worthy. At 72,808 miles for a ten‑year‑old 2016 Nissan Qashqai the annual mileage works out to roughly 7,300 mi per year, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope. The mileage is not excessive, but it does imply that the car has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for long stretches. Regular use generally keeps components such as the engine, transmission and suspension lubricated, yet it also means that wear items – brake pads, discs, tyres and suspension bushings – will have accumulated a proportional amount of service life and should be inspected with that mileage in mind. The rear brake situation is the most pressing concern. Pads thinner than 1.5 mm are classified as dangerous and should be replaced immediately; the accompanying disc condition – pitting and scoring – usually means the discs will need resurfacing or replacement as well. On a test drive the driver may notice a soft or spongy pedal, increased stopping distances, a pulsating feel when applying the brakes, or a high‑pitched squeal that grows louder as the pads wear further. It is also prudent to check the front brake pads and discs for uneven wear, and to have the brake fluid flushed if it has not been serviced in the last two years, as moisture ingress can reduce boiling point and compromise braking performance. Beyond the brakes, the off‑side rear tyre was flagged in 2025 for slight damage, cracking or perishing, a condition that can accelerate with age even if tread depth appears acceptable. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracks, dry rot, and tread depth; any tyre older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of mileage. Inspect the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for play or clunking noises, especially over bumps, as low‑speed mileage can still hide wear in these components. Given the vehicle’s age, verify the health of the 12 V battery, check for any corrosion on terminals, and confirm that the service book shows regular oil, coolant and transmission fluid changes. A thorough visual check for rust on the under‑carriage, wheel arches and around the wheel wells will also help to identify any hidden corrosion that could affect long‑term reliability.