2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · FD17 AAX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 9 January 2026, resulted in a pass overall but recorded three dangerous failures – the off‑side front tyre was judged to be close to the legal limit, the near‑side front tyre was already below the 1.6 mm minimum tread depth, and the front brake pads were measured at less than 1.5 mm. The preceding three annual tests (2025, 2024 and 2022) were clean, indicating that the vehicle had been maintained to a satisfactory standard until the last twelve months, after which the condition of the front tyres and brake wear has deteriorated sharply. The trend therefore moves from a stable, well‑kept state to a worsening one that now requires immediate remedial work before the car can be considered road‑worthy. At 63,318 mi on a 2017 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7,000 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear observed on the front tyres and pads is likely the result of normal wear rather than a sudden spike in mileage. Nevertheless, a vehicle with this age and mileage will have accumulated a fair amount of wear on consumables such as suspension bushings, steering components and the drivetrain, and these items should be inspected for any signs of fatigue. The front tyre situation demands urgent attention: both front tyres should be replaced with a matched set, ensuring the new tyres are of the correct size, speed rating and load index for the Qashqai. When test‑driving the car, listen for any thumping, vibration or pulling to one side that could indicate uneven wear or a developing issue with the wheel bearings or suspension arms. The front brake pads, being below the minimum thickness, must also be fitted with new pads and the rotors inspected for scoring or excessive rust; any pulsation or squeal under braking would be a warning sign of warped discs or contaminated pads. While you are at it, check the condition of the rear brake pads and discs, as they often receive less attention but can suffer from uneven wear if the front pads have been neglected. Given the vehicle is now nine years old, time‑related deterioration should be examined even if mileage is modest. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulging, as tyres older than six years can fail regardless of tread depth. Examine the 12 V battery for signs of sulphation or reduced cranking power, especially if the car has spent periods idle. Look for corrosion on the chassis, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, and verify that all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) have been topped up and, where applicable, replaced according to the service schedule – brake fluid, for example, should be changed at least every two years. A thorough visual check of the suspension bushes, coil springs and steering rack for looseness or leakage, and a brief road test for any clunking or shuddering, will give you confidence that the car’s mechanical health is sound beyond the immediate tyre and brake work.