2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FN66 WHZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 September 2025 resulted in a pass, although the tester recorded five advisories, all relating to the tyres. The overall maintenance trend across the recorded MOT history is best described as stable but with persistent, recurring concerns rather than a worsening or improving pattern. The vehicle has passed every annual test since 2019 without any failures, which is reassuring, yet the same components, specifically the brake discs and, more recently, the tyres, have been flagged repeatedly. The brake disc advisories first appeared in 2020 and continued through 2021 and 2023, while tyre-related advisories have emerged in 2024 and again in 2025. This consistency of flagged items suggests that the vehicle has been serviced and presented for test in reasonable mechanical condition, but that certain wear-prone components are now reaching a stage where proactive replacement is warranted. The recorded mileage of 48,774 miles over approximately ten years equates to an annual average of around 4,877 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and indicates either predominantly short-trip urban use or extended periods of standing between journeys. Such low annual mileage typically means that wear-related items such as the clutch, drivetrain, and engine internals are unlikely to be heavily fatigued, but it does raise the likelihood of age-related degradation in components that deteriorate with calendar time rather than use. Irregular or infrequent driving can lead to brake caliper seizure through corrosion, surface rust and pitting on brake discs from moisture exposure, and accelerated perishing of rubber components including tyres, hoses, and drive belts. No significant gaps in MOT history are evident, with tests conducted consistently from 2019 through 2025, indicating the vehicle has remained in active use and registered throughout. Given the recurring advisories on the brake discs across multiple tests, a prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed assessment of the braking system. The 2023 advisories noted pitting and scoring on all four discs with front brake pads wearing thin, and although the vehicle subsequently passed in 2024 and 2025 without further brake-related advisories, brake disc wear does not self-correct and typically progresses. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsation through the brake pedal, particularly under firm application, which would indicate worn pads, warped or excessively worn discs, or a binding caliper. Inspect the discs visually for a pronounced lip at the outer edge and check that the vehicle pulls evenly to a stop. Given the consistent advisories, budgeting for replacement of the front brake discs and pads, and potentially the rear discs, should be considered as an imminent maintenance item. Beyond the recorded defects, the low annual mileage and the vehicle's age of approximately ten years warrant particular attention to time-sensitive deterioration. The tyre advisories from 2025 noted cracking and perishing on both rear tyres alongside a nail in the nearside rear, which suggests the existing tyres are approaching the end of their useful life regardless of tread depth. All four tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking, bulges, and age-related degradation, as rubber perishes with calendar age regardless of mileage. The 12-volt battery is a common failure point on low-mileage vehicles due to chronic undercharging, so its resting voltage and date code should be verified. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) all degrade with time and should be checked against the manufacturer's service schedule rather than purely mileage intervals. Finally, examine the underside and suspension components for surface corrosion, check that all suspension bushes and the coil springs are free from cracking or seizing, and confirm that the exhaust system is intact and free from corrosion, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to exhaust deterioration from internal moisture accumulation.