2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · EX13 HFD

The latest MOT test on 2026-08-14 resulted in a clean pass, though it included several recurring advisories that suggest a pattern of wear and potential underlying issues requiring attention. While the vehicle has passed subsequent tests without major failures, the consistent presence of ball joint play, tyre wear close to legal limits, and oil leaks indicates a maintenance trend that has neither stabilised nor improved significantly over the past three years. The advisories on suspension components—particularly the front track rod ends, anti-roll bar linkages, and suspension arms—highlight progressive wear in critical areas that, if left unaddressed, could lead to increased play, binding, or structural compromise. The brake efficiency advisory from 2023 also points to a persistent issue that may require professional inspection, as the system appears to be operating at the very edge of legal performance, which could degrade further with continued use. The vehicle’s mileage of 116,716 miles for a 13-year-old Qashqai reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,000 miles per year, which is typical for its age. However, the absence of a service history or significant mileage gaps suggests either light or intermittent use, potentially leading to accelerated wear in components that are not regularly driven—such as suspension bushes and brake systems—which are more prone to degradation when stationary or under low-demand conditions. The oil leak advisories, particularly in recent years, may also indicate a need for deeper inspection of the engine bay, as leaks can exacerbate corrosion and compromise sealing integrity over time. The brake disc failure from 2023, though now passed, underscores the importance of monitoring brake performance, especially if the vehicle is driven regularly. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a test drive are the suspension and braking systems. Listen for unusual clunks or rattles from the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn ball joints or suspension arms. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the edges of the offside front tyres, which could signal misalignment or steering component issues. Inspect the brake discs and calipers for binding, corrosion, or uneven thickness, as the 2023 failure highlighted significant wear. The oil leak advisories warrant a visual check under the vehicle for any dark stains or wet spots, and a test drive to observe if oil is visibly dripping from the engine bay or transmission area. Additionally, verify that the brake efficiency is consistent across both front wheels, as the 2023 advisory suggests a potential need for brake pad or hydraulic system adjustment. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also examine the vehicle’s structural integrity, particularly the subframe mountings, which showed corrosion in previous MOTs. Look for signs of rust or deterioration around the front and rear subframe mounts, as this can compromise the vehicle’s stability and safety. Given the vehicle’s age and the presence of oil leaks, consider checking the condition of the 12V battery and starter motor, as prolonged idling or low-mileage use can lead to battery degradation or electrical system issues. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, it is advisable to verify the last recorded service stamps, especially for fluid changes such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, which degrade over time regardless of mileage. Calendar-based servicing for these fluids is recommended every two years for a vehicle of this age.