2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · FD67 VOG

The most recent MOT on 20 February 2026 was a pass, but it carried an advisory that the front brakes were only just meeting the imbalance requirement and highlighted deteriorated dust‑covers on both front lower suspension arm ball joints and track‑rod ends. The preceding test two days earlier had failed on headlamp aim and the same brake advisory, while the 2024 cycle showed a dangerous front‑brake‑pad thickness of less than 1.5 mm and multiple tyre condition advisories. Earlier years (2021‑2023) were clean, but the pattern over the last two years indicates a worsening maintenance trend, with brake wear, tyre perishing and lighting issues now recurring. At 92 819 miles the Qashqai has logged roughly 11 600 miles per annum since its 2018 registration, which sits squarely within the UK average for a family SUV. The mileage does not suggest excessive short‑trip abuse or unusually high annual use, but the combination of relatively modest mileage and the emerging wear items points to periods of limited use interspersed with age‑related degradation rather than sheer mileage‑driven failure. Consequently, consumables such as pads, discs and tyres are likely to be nearer the end of their service lives despite the modest total distance. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the braking system. Verify that the front pads have been replaced since the 2024 dangerous finding and inspect the disc surfaces for scoring or rust, listening for any shudder or pulsation under moderate braking. The rear pads were flagged as thin in 2024, so measuring the remaining thickness and checking for uneven wear is essential; any pull to one side may indicate a sticking caliper or worn rear‑hand brake shoes. The front suspension dust‑covers are severely deteriorated, so examine the lower arm ball joints and track‑rod ends for corrosion, excessive play or leaking grease, and be alert for clunking noises when applying steering input or traversing bumps. Headlamp alignment should be checked and corrected, and the windscreen wiper mechanism, which failed as ineffective in 2024, must be tested for proper clearance and blade condition. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are prudent. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, perishing or uneven tread wear, especially the near‑side rear tyre that has previously approached the legal limit; confirm that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm on all corners. Examine the chassis and wheel arches for surface rust that could indicate prolonged standing, and verify that the battery terminals are clean and the 12‑volt unit holds charge, as an eight‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Finally, ensure that the service book shows regular oil, coolant and brake‑fluid changes at the manufacturer’s intervals, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on seals and braking components. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the vehicle’s current roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance budget.