2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · FE68 NJY

A pattern of increasing component wear and safety-critical failures has emerged in the most recent testing cycles, moving away from the clean records seen between 2021 and 2023. While the vehicle passed its latest inspection on 15 September 2026, the roadworthiness profile shows a recent trend of immediate failures involving tyre structural integrity, specifically a dangerous bulge on the nearside rear tyre that necessitated a failure in the same session. This recent instability in maintenance standards is further evidenced by recurring advisories regarding brake disc condition and wiper blade defects. The recorded mileage of 48,507 miles over approximately eight years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 6,063 miles. This relatively low annual mileage is consistent with light usage, which can sometimes lead to components like brake discs developing surface corrosion or pitting due to infrequent high-temperature use. However, the recent MOT history indicates that despite the lower total mileage, consumable items such as tyres and brake pads are reaching the end of their serviceable life, suggesting that the frequency of use may not be offsetting the natural degradation of rubber and metal components. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system, as the 2026 test flagged both nearside and offside front brake discs as being worn, pitted, or scored. During a test drive, it is essential to check for any pedal judder or vibration when applying the brakes at motorway speeds, which can indicate uneven disc surfaces. Additionally, given the 2024 advisories regarding thin brake pads on both the front and rear axles, the current thickness of the pads and the presence of any grinding noises during low-speed braking should be physically inspected to ensure the system is not nearing a failure point. Tyre condition and structural integrity require immediate scrutiny following the recent failure for a sidewall bulge. Beyond checking for visible cuts or bulges on the sidewalls, the driver should listen for irregular road noise or feel for any steering pull that might indicate uneven tread wear or internal tyre damage. The advisory regarding a deteriorated rear registration plate is a minor cosmetic issue, but the combination of recent tyre failures and brake disc advisories suggests that a thorough inspection of all external consumables is necessary to ensure the vehicle meets standard safety expectations.