2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · FH65 PLU

The most recent DVSA examination on 19 December 2025 resulted in a pass, although the test was accompanied by several advisories and minor defects that warrant careful consideration. Reviewing the broader trajectory across the recorded MOT history, the maintenance trend is one of gradual rather than sudden decline. The earliest tests from 2019 through 2022 returned clean passes, but from 2023 onwards there has been a steady accumulation of minor items, advisories relating to brake discs and front tyres, and notably a dangerous failure in December 2024 caused by a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber. The fact that the same offside front outer constant velocity joint boot was recorded as severely deteriorated across two consecutive tests in 2024 and remained recorded in 2025 suggests it has not been rectified, which is a concern, and the reappearance of track rod end and suspension arm ball joint dust cover deterioration indicates progressive wear of the front suspension components. Overall, the pattern points to a vehicle that is mechanically intact enough to pass but is showing the cumulative effects of age and requires prompt attention to several identified wear items. With a recorded mileage of 62,240 miles over an eleven-year period, the annual usage is approximately 5,660 miles, which is well below the national average and indicates either predominantly light use, extended periods of standing, or a combination of both. While lower mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and turbocharger, it carries its own mechanical risks, particularly regarding corrosion of brake discs from infrequent use, deterioration of rubber components from environmental exposure rather than mechanical fatigue, and potential degradation of oils and coolants over time. The MOT history shows broadly consistent annual test dates with mileage progressing steadily between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road and exercised, though typically for short journeys that may not allow the engine and exhaust system to reach full operating temperature. Several recurring defects deserve close scrutiny prior to purchase. The offside rear shock absorber that failed in December 2024 for a serious fluid leak is the most critical item; it must be verified that the repair has been carried out to a satisfactory standard, as a leaking damper compromises both ride quality and handling stability, and any subsequent test should be checked to confirm no advisory remains on the rear suspension. The offside front outer constant velocity joint boot, recorded as severely deteriorated in both 2024 and 2025, allows grease to escape and contaminants to enter the joint, leading to eventual failure with symptoms of clicking or knocking under load, particularly when turning at low speed; this should be inspected for fresh grease around the joint and the boot itself should be examined for splits. The front brake disc advisory noted in 2023, combined with the previous front brake pad advisory in 2021, indicates the braking system is approaching a service interval and the discs and callipers should be physically measured for thickness and checked for binding or uneven wear. The deteriorated track rod end and suspension arm ball joint dust covers recorded across multiple tests suggest the front suspension bushes and linkages are ageing; during a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over uneven surfaces and check for uneven front tyre wear, which is a classic symptom of worn suspension components. Beyond the recorded MOT items, the eleven-year age and predominantly low-mileage usage profile demand several practical physical checks. The advisories for offside rear tyre cracking and perishing, combined with the front tyres being close to the legal limit, indicate that the tyres are likely original or aged, and even unused tyres perish from exposure to UV light and ozone, so all four sidewalls should be inspected for hairline cracking and the production date codes verified. Given the low annual mileage, the 12V battery is highly likely to be approaching the end of its service life and should be load tested, as short journeys and infrequent use accelerate sulphation. Brake discs that have spent extended periods standing will exhibit surface corrosion, which is normal but should not be excessive, and the calliper slide pins should be free-moving to prevent the pads from dragging. The advisory from 2021 regarding underbody condition suggests an awareness of corrosion risk on this model, so a thorough underbody inspection, ideally with the vehicle raised, is essential to check for any developing corrosion on the brake pipes, suspension springs, and subframe mounting points. Finally, the timing chain, coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid should all be considered for replacement based on calendar age rather than mileage, as fluid degradation occurs irrespective of use and is a common oversight on low-mileage vehicles of this age.