2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FD17 LCL

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Nissan Qashqai, conducted on 2026-03-09, resulted in a failure due to critical brake pad wear on the nearside front inner assembly, measuring only 1.1 mm remaining, which is below the legal minimum of 1.5 mm. This failure marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, where all tests from 2020 to 2025 were clean, indicating no prior brake-related defects. The presence of an advisory for offside front brake pads also wearing thin suggests a developing issue that could escalate if not addressed promptly. While the failure is classified as "Dangerous," the absence of other critical faults in the latest test does not immediately suggest a systemic maintenance failure, but the brake system’s condition warrants immediate attention. The pattern of low mileage and consistent clean MOTs prior to this failure implies that the brake wear may have either accelerated recently or been overlooked during previous inspections, potentially due to reduced usage or prolonged periods of inactivity. The recorded mileage of 51,864 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,763 miles per annum, which is notably lower than the average for its class. Such low mileage can result from factors like infrequent driving, long periods of stationary use, or a more leisurely ownership profile. However, prolonged inactivity without regular movement can lead to specific issues, particularly within the brake system, suspension, and drivetrain components. For example, standing brakes may cause corrosion on brake discs and calipers, leading to binding or reduced friction material effectiveness. Additionally, fluid degradation—such as in the brake fluid reservoir or coolant—can accelerate over time, even if the vehicle is not driven daily. The suspension components, including bushes and coil springs, may also show signs of wear from static stress, especially if the vehicle has been left in a parked position for extended periods. Given the recent MOT failure concerning the nearside front brake pads, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the entire brake system. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding, squeaking, or excessive vibration when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition—if it appears dark or has contaminants, it may require flushing. Check for any fluid leaks around the brake calipers, master cylinder, or brake lines, as this could signal a failing hydraulic system. Additionally, visually examine the brake discs for signs of corrosion, warping, or uneven wear, and ensure there is no binding when the brakes are applied. The offside front brake pads, while currently only showing advisory wear, should also be monitored closely, as further thinning could lead to a repeat failure. If the brake system is deemed unsafe, the buyer should consider immediate servicing or replacement of the brake pads and discs to restore roadworthiness. For the rest of the vehicle, given the low mileage and clean MOT history prior to the recent failure, the buyer should focus on age-appropriate checks that address potential issues from prolonged use or reduced movement. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations over time. Check the tyre tread depth for uniformity and signs of uneven wear, as this can indicate suspension or alignment issues. The vehicle’s battery should be tested for voltage and charge capacity, as low-mileage vehicles may suffer from reduced current draw from accessories when the engine is off. Fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, should be topped up if low, and all fluids should be checked for contamination or degradation. Finally, the suspension should be inspected for signs of wear on bushes, springs, and struts, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate loose or worn suspension components. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the mileage suggests it may have accumulated wear on the drivetrain, exhaust system, and exhaust emissions components, but no specific defects have been recorded in the MOT history to suggest urgent action.