2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · FN09 KAU

The latest MOT test for this 2009 Nissan Qashqai occurred in 2023, where it failed with several critical and advisory defects, including a major failure on the offside front track rod end ball joint showing excessive play—a condition that compromises steering precision and alignment, potentially leading to uneven tyre wear or steering pull if left unresolved. This follows a previous MOT failure in 2022, where the same ball joint was flagged as excessively worn, alongside repeated advisories on offside rear suspension arm corrosion and brake disc pitting, indicating a pattern of mechanical degradation in the suspension and braking systems. The 2022 passing MOT, however, only recorded minor issues such as brake binding and tyre nails, suggesting that while the vehicle has faced persistent wear-related problems, the severity of failures has not escalated to catastrophic levels in the short term. The overall maintenance trend is concerning, with recurring advisories on corrosion and wear in critical suspension components, which if ignored could lead to structural integrity issues or further mechanical failures that would fail an MOT. The recorded mileage of 113,619 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,683 miles per year, which is typical for its age and likely reflects a mix of regular driving and periods of inactivity. This usage profile does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected for its age, but it also does not indicate a particularly low-mileage scenario that might mitigate some of the corrosion and wear issues observed. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to high-stress driving conditions, but the consistent presence of corrosion advisories on suspension arms—particularly in both rear arms—implies prolonged exposure to moisture or poor maintenance practices, accelerating wear. Buyers should be aware that standing the vehicle for extended periods can exacerbate corrosion in suspension components, leading to potential failure of critical links if not addressed. Given the recurring MOT advisories and failures, the prospective buyer must prioritise immediate attention to the front track rod end ball joint and rear suspension arm corrosion. The excessive play in the offside front ball joint requires replacement to prevent steering instability, uneven tyre wear, or even potential roadside failure. During a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or over bumps, and check for a noticeable pull or vibration in the steering wheel. The corroded suspension arms, particularly if they are part of the rear arms, should be inspected for any signs of structural compromise, such as cracks or excessive deformation. If the arms are severely corroded, replacement may be necessary to maintain structural integrity and prevent the vehicle from failing an MOT due to suspension failure. In addition to the immediate mechanical concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s condition. Given the vehicle’s age and the presence of corrosion advisories, focus on the following areas: inspect the rear suspension arms for any signs of further corrosion or damage, particularly in areas exposed to road spray or standing water. Check the brake discs for signs of excessive pitting or warping, which could indicate uneven wear or hydraulic issues. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, as this may signal worn brake pads or warped discs. The tyre condition should be scrutinised for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could be linked to suspension or alignment problems. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider a battery health check, as older vehicles may experience reduced starting performance or electrical system failures. If the battery is more than 5 years old, it may require replacement, and the alternator should be inspected for charging efficiency. For fluid servicing, check the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluid for signs of degradation, such as contamination or sludge, and ensure they have not been left unused for extended periods, as this can lead to corrosion or seal failure.