2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · EX13 DVH

Most recent MOT (29 Sep 2025 – 58,014 mi) The test was passed but flagged a thin off‑side rear brake pad, a headlamp with some product on the lens, a minor oil leak and an insecure under‑tray. These are all advisory‑type items; none are classified as dangerous, but the brake pad wear is the most immediate safety concern. Recurring mechanical pattern Across the last five years the MOT reports show a consistent set of defects: Front track‑rod end ball‑joint dust covers have been noted as damaged or deteriorated every year since 2021. In 2024 the lower‑suspension arm ball‑joint dust covers were described as “severely deteriorated”, indicating the underlying ball joints may be approaching the end of their service life. A minor oil leak has appeared on every MOT, though it has never been judged excessive. Brake wear has been highlighted twice – front disc pitting in 2023 and thin rear pads in 2025. These items point to gradual wear of suspension bushings/ball joints and the braking system, rather than a sudden failure. Trend analysis The defect list is relatively stable – the same areas keep re‑appearing, with no new catastrophic faults emerging. However, the severity of the suspension‑related notes has increased (from dust‑cover damage to “severely deteriorated” ball‑joint covers in 2024), suggesting the wear is progressing. The brake pad wear is a new advisory for 2025, so the braking system should be checked promptly.