2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · FD17 LCC

The 2017 Nissan Qashqai’s latest MOT test on 2026-05-26 resulted in a passing grade, though it included a single advisory related to the near-side rear child seat obstructing a full inspection of the adult seatbelt system. Despite this, the overall MOT history over the past five years demonstrates a stable maintenance profile with no repeated failures beyond the noted windscreen wiper issues from 2021. The recurring advisories on brake pad wear—particularly on the rear and near-side front—suggest gradual but consistent friction component degradation, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and mileage. The absence of any major defects or repeated critical failures indicates that while wear is progressing, the vehicle remains roadworthy without imminent safety concerns. The slight play in the inner steering arms from 2025’s test is also noteworthy; this could indicate early signs of suspension component fatigue, particularly in the lower control arms or bushings, though it does not currently pose a failure risk. The recorded mileage of 66,115 miles for a nine-year-old Qashqai reflects a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,346 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. Such mileage accumulation is unlikely to be excessive, but it does imply regular, active use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests suggests that the vehicle has been maintained under consistent operational conditions, reducing the risk of standing-related corrosion or fluid degradation. The wear advisories on brake pads and discs align with expected usage patterns, with no evidence of sudden or excessive wear that might indicate misuse or mechanical failure. The tyres, while showing signs of wear close to legal limits in 2023, have since been replaced or addressed, ensuring compliance with roadworthiness standards. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a pre-purchase examination are the brake system and suspension components, given the recurring advisories. The thin brake pads and worn discs—particularly on the rear and near-side front—demonstrate ongoing friction material consumption, which should be monitored closely. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, excessive vibration or shuddering during braking, or signs of brake fluid contamination, which could indicate hydraulic system issues. The slight play in the inner steering arms suggests potential suspension bushings or lower arm wear; check for clunking noises when driving over bumps, particularly at low speeds, and inspect the suspension for uneven spring compression or binding calipers. Additionally, visually inspect the brake discs for scoring, warping, or excessive glazing, which could compromise braking performance. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and usage profile warrant attention to several other areas. Given the recorded tyre sidewall perishing and cracking advisories from 2021 and 2023, a thorough inspection of the remaining tyres is essential, especially for any signs of dry rot or internal damage, which could compromise tyre integrity and safety. The windscreen wiper issues from 2021 remain unresolved; ensure the remaining wiper blades are fully functional and replace any that show signs of wear or failure to clear the windscreen effectively. For fluid servicing, check the brake, coolant, and transmission fluids for contamination or degradation, as these can degrade over time even with moderate mileage. Finally, verify the service history for scheduled maintenance such as timing belt replacement (if applicable), oil changes, and suspension component inspections, as these are critical for long-term reliability. The battery should also be tested for capacity, as prolonged use without a charge cycle can lead to reduced performance or failure, especially in a vehicle of this age.