2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · FN63 ABF

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 January 2026 resulted in a Pass, although the test attracted two rear brake pad advisories, two rear suspension arm pin or bush advisories, and a Minor defect for an inoperative offside rear registration plate lamp. The overall trend across the recorded history is one of mild but progressive deterioration rather than outright decline, with the 2025 test introducing the first brake disc and shock absorber advisories, followed by the January 2026 pass showing the rear brake pads now wearing through and suspension bushes beginning to show wear. The earlier January 2025 failure for perished anti-roll bar linkage dust covers was addressed before the subsequent pass, which is encouraging, and the absence of repeat advisories on those components suggests the repair was effective. The recurring appearance of brake-related advisories across consecutive tests, however, indicates that braking consumables on this vehicle are reaching the end of their service life and warrant close attention from any prospective buyer. With a recorded mileage of 79,640 miles over approximately thirteen years, this Qashqai has covered an average of around 6,126 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no obvious prolonged gaps in usage that would suggest long periods of standing, nor is there evidence of excessive high-mileage accumulation that would disproportionately stress the drivetrain. That said, the annual rate is sufficient to ensure normal mechanical wear progression on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, all of which are showing through the recent advisories. Buyers should be mindful that even moderate-mileage vehicles of this age accumulate wear on rubber and polymer components purely through calendar ageing, irrespective of how far they have been driven. The recurring rear brake disc and pad advisories from 2025 and 2026 strongly suggest that the rear braking system is approaching a complete refurbishment. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsing through the brake pedal, and check whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, which could indicate uneven pad wear or a binding caliper. The 2025 advisory for an offside rear shock absorber showing reduced damping effect is a particular concern; on inspection, push down firmly on each rear corner and release, counting the number of oscillations. A healthy damper will settle almost immediately, whereas a worn unit will continue to bounce. Equally, the rear suspension arm pin or bush wear advisories from the latest test should be evaluated by a technician for excessive play, as left unaddressed they will progress and may eventually compromise handling and tyre wear. Beyond the documented defects, a thirteen-year-old vehicle with this mileage profile warrants several age-appropriate physical checks regardless of what the MOT history alone reveals. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall perishing and cracking, particularly on the rear axle where previous advisories have already flagged this issue, and verify that none are older than five years by checking the DOT date code on the sidewall. Given the documented sub-frame corrosion advisory from 2024, examine the front sub-frame and suspension mounting points for any progression of surface corrosion. Check the 12V battery, as units of this age frequently fail without warning, particularly during colder months, and verify that the cambelt and water pump replacement interval has been observed in line with Nissan service schedules. Finally, confirm that brake fluid, coolant, and automatic or manual transmission fluid have been changed on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage, as these fluids degrade with age and can lead to internal corrosion or reduced protection if left unattended.