2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FN17 DFV

The latest DVSA MOT test on the 2017 Nissan Qashqai, conducted on 2026-06-23, resulted in a passing grade with two advisories that reflect ongoing but manageable wear issues within the vehicle’s suspension system. The advisory regarding worn suspension arm pins or bushes on both front lower arms and rear axle—described as not resulting in excessive movement—indicates progressive degradation in the suspension components, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and mileage. While this trend is consistent with the previous MOT results from 2025 and earlier, the absence of any major failures or critical defects in recent years suggests that the maintenance trend remains stable rather than deteriorating. The recurring advisories on suspension wear, however, warrant careful attention, as they may signal underlying structural fatigue that could worsen over time if not addressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 97,314 miles over approximately nine years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,813 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. Lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or lighter use, potentially leading to accelerated wear from standing, such as corrosion in the brake system or suspension components, whereas higher mileage would accelerate consumption of consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and fluids. The absence of significant mileage spikes or abrupt increases in usage suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to particularly harsh driving conditions, but the consistent wear advisories on suspension components may still point to underlying issues that could develop into more serious problems if not monitored. The combination of moderate mileage and recurring suspension wear highlights the importance of proactive maintenance to prevent potential failures. Given the recurring advisories on suspension arm pins and bushes, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front and rear suspension components, focusing on the lower arms and axle area for signs of excessive play, cracks, or corrosion. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, as these could indicate worn or failing suspension bushes. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension imbalance caused by the worn components. The nearside and offside front brake fluctuations recorded in the 2025 MOT failure are particularly concerning, as they may indicate binding calipers, warped brake discs, or hydraulic issues. Inspect the front brake system for any signs of excessive heat discoloration on the discs, corrosion around the caliper bolts, or a spongy or pulsating brake pedal, which could signal impending brake failure. For the buyer, given the vehicle’s age and the presence of fluid advisories such as low coolant levels from the 2023 MOT, it is essential to verify the condition of all fluids, including the engine coolant, brake fluid, differential and transmission fluids, and power steering fluid. Check for leaks around the coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, and transmission pan, as well as signs of contamination or degradation in the fluids, which can accelerate component wear. The 2021 and 2022 MOT records showing no defects, combined with the cleaner earlier tests, suggest that the vehicle has not been subjected to severe mechanical issues up to that point, but the recent advisories and potential brake system concerns mean that a comprehensive mechanical inspection is highly recommended. Prioritise a professional check of the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components, and ensure that all fluid levels and service intervals are up to date. If the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, inspect for corrosion on the chassis, undercarriage, and structural components, as prolonged idling can accelerate rust formation. Finally, consider verifying the service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as wheel alignment, brake servicing, and suspension component replacement, has been carried out as advised.