2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · EU17 PXJ

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 23 July 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that at the time of inspection it met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, with the Qashqai passing every examination since 2020 and showing no recurring structural or mechanical failures. The single recorded fail in August 2024 was limited to a headlamp aim defect classified as a present and dangerous shortcoming, which was remedied prior to the subsequent pass on the same date and has not reoccurred. The advisories logged have been minor and largely administrative in nature, with the brake pad advisory on the nearside front in 2024 representing the only genuine mechanical observation in the history. With a recorded mileage of 38,393 miles over approximately nine years, this Qashqai averages around 4,266 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of its age. Such modest annual usage suggests either predominantly short urban journeys or extended periods of standing, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Low-mileage vehicles often experience accelerated degradation of components that rely on regular operation, including 12V battery health, brake disc surface corrosion, caliper seizure from inactivity, and deterioration of rubber components such as seals and boots. Equally, infrequent use can mask developing issues, as wear-related symptoms typically manifest only under load or after sustained driving. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT record suggests consistent, if light, use rather than long-term storage. Given the clean recent MOT outcome and low-mileage profile, a prospective buyer should focus on age and standing-related degradation rather than wear-based concerns. Tyres should be carefully inspected for sidewall perishing and cracking, which commonly affects rubber that has aged beyond six years regardless of tread depth, and the production date code on the sidewall should be checked to confirm the tyres are within a reasonable service life. Brake discs should be examined for surface rust and corrosion pitting, particularly on the rear axle where standing can lead to uneven disc wear or binding calipers; during a test drive, listen for any scraping, grinding, or pulsation through the brake pedal, and confirm the vehicle rolls freely when released on level terrain. The handbrake should hold firmly on an incline without slipping, as cables and mechanisms can stiffen or seize from infrequent use. Equally important is verification of time-based servicing such as brake fluid, coolant, and automatic or manual transmission fluid replacement, all of which degrade by age rather than mileage and may have been overlooked given the low annual use. Finally, the 12V battery is a priority inspection point, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from chronic undercharging that shortens battery life; a load test or battery health report from a diagnostic tool would be prudent. On the test drive, listen for suspension clonks or knocking over uneven surfaces, which could indicate perished bushes or worn top mounts that have deteriorated with age rather than mileage, and pay attention to any uneven tyre wear patterns suggesting alignment or suspension geometry concerns. Inspect under the bonnet and beneath the vehicle for any signs of fluid leaks, paying particular attention to the areas around the cam cover, oil filter housing, and suspension dampers, as standing moisture and temperature variation can accelerate seal degradation. Where possible, request evidence of recent servicing in the form of invoices or a stamped service book, and confirm that the timing chain or belt interval has been respected by calendar age rather than odometer reading alone, as both have finite service lives regardless of distance travelled.