2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FN17 MVM

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Nissan Qashqai was conducted on 2026-02-20 and resulted in a passing grade, though it included a persistent advisory regarding the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit, specifically showing edge wear that approaches the 3mm tread depth threshold. This follows a pattern of recurring tyre-related advisories over the past five years, with the vehicle failing in 2024-2025 due to similar issues, alongside additional major defects unrelated to the tyres. While the latest MOT passed, the consistent presence of tyre wear advisories—particularly the nearside front tyre—suggests a maintenance trend that has not fully resolved the underlying wear patterns, potentially indicating either aggressive driving habits, suboptimal tyre alignment, or insufficient rotation and balancing. The failure in 2023 also highlighted critical brake conditions, including front brake pads being dangerously thin, which would have necessitated immediate replacement. This suggests that while the vehicle may have been maintained in other areas, the tyre and brake systems have been subject to recurring issues that require careful attention. The recorded mileage of 93,027 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents an average annual usage of approximately 10,336 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and model, particularly if it has been driven in mixed conditions including city and highway travel. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage figures over the past few years—especially given the vehicle’s age—could imply periods of prolonged standing, which often exacerbates wear in critical systems such as brakes, suspension, and fluid integrity. Standing vehicles are particularly prone to brake pad binding due to corrosion, suspension bush degradation from lack of movement, and potential fluid degradation in the cooling, brake, and power steering systems. The tyre advisories, particularly the sidewall perishing noted in previous MOTs, may also be more pronounced when a vehicle remains stationary for extended periods, as the rubber compounds can dry out and crack over time, leading to reduced grip and increased risk of blowouts. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the recurring tyre wear and the critical brake condition observed in 2023. The nearside front tyre showing edge wear approaching the legal limit demands immediate inspection to confirm whether the tread depth is actually below 3mm, as this would necessitate replacement. On a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, underinflation, or steering system issues. The offside rear tyre sidewall perishing is also a cause for concern, as cracked rubber can compromise tyre integrity and safety, particularly at higher speeds. During the inspection, check for signs of uneven tyre wear, such as cupping or directional wear, which could signal suspension or alignment problems. The critical front brake pads being dangerously thin in 2023 must be addressed promptly, as this poses a significant safety risk. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, warping, or excessive thickness loss, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid systems. Given the vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged standing, check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the calipers, brake hoses, and wheel cylinders, particularly on the nearside where standing corrosion is more likely to occur. Inspect the suspension for binding calipers, cracked coil springs, or degraded suspension bushes, which may produce clunking noises when driving over bumps. Verify the condition of the tyres’ sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre’s structural integrity over time. Additionally, test the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery discharge or corrosion of terminals. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids, including the brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. A comprehensive inspection should also include a check of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, and the exhaust emissions system for any signs of malfunction, as these can impact both performance and compliance with emissions standards. If the vehicle has been driven at a relatively low annual mileage, prioritise checks for standing-related issues such as brake corrosion, suspension degradation, and tyre sidewall perishing.