2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · EU66 MPE

A pattern of emerging wear in the steering and suspension components has surfaced recently, marking a shift from several years of defect-free testing. While the vehicle achieved a pass on 23 July 2026 with no recorded defects, the preceding test in April 2026 highlighted several minor issues and tyre advisories that indicate the onset of component degradation. This recent trend suggests that while the vehicle has maintained a clean record through 2025 and 2024, the mechanical components related to the front axle are now requiring closer scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 80,806 miles over approximately ten years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,081 miles. This usage profile is consistent with typical domestic driving patterns for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this level of mileage suggests that while the drivetrain and engine have not been subjected to extreme high-mileage stress, the vehicle is at a stage where rubber components, such as suspension bushes and steering linkages, and consumable items like tyres, are expected to reach the end of their service life. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front-end geometry and steering response during a test drive. The April 2026 MOT recorded minor defects regarding damaged or deteriorated dust covers on both nearside and offside front track rod ends, alongside a severely deteriorated dust cover on the nearside front suspension ball joint. On the road, these issues can manifest as a vague or wandering steering feel, or audible knocking and clunking noises when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds. It is essential to verify if the repairs for these specific ball joint and track rod end covers were carried out following the April test, as failing to replace the damaged boots can lead to the ingress of grit and subsequent premature failure of the joints themselves. Furthermore, the advisories regarding the nearside and offside front tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges should be addressed. Uneven tyre wear on the edges often correlates with the steering and suspension issues previously noted, potentially indicating a need for a wheel alignment or camber adjustment. During a test drive, listen for any rhythmic thumping or humming from the front wheels and check for any steering pull to one side on a level surface. Ensuring that the tyres have been replaced and that the steering components have been fully rectified is critical to confirming the current roadworthiness of the front axle assembly.