2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FP66 AAF

The 2016 Nissan Qashqai’s latest MOT test on 2025-09-09 resulted in a passing grade, with the most notable findings being an advisory related to the near-side rear child seat obstructing full inspection of the adult seatbelt system and a minor front windscreen damage that does not impair visibility. The MOT history over the preceding five years shows a stable maintenance profile, with no failures recorded in the last three tests and only minor advisories in the two preceding years. While the presence of recurring brake-related advisories—specifically the offside front brake disc showing wear, pitting, or scoring and the thin condition of all-round brake pads—suggests a gradual but consistent need for attention, they do not currently pose an immediate roadworthiness risk. These advisories are indicative of normal wear progression in a vehicle of this age and mileage, particularly given the Qashqai’s common use of semi-metallic or organic brake pads, which can wear more quickly than ceramic counterparts. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 71,422 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,142 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a 10-year-old car with typical British road conditions. The consistent mileage accumulation without significant gaps or rapid increases suggests a steady, albeit not particularly high, level of use. However, this usage pattern does not necessarily correlate to accelerated wear beyond what is typical for a Qashqai’s design, particularly in components like the suspension, drivetrain, and exhaust system, which are less prone to rapid deterioration. The absence of extreme mileage spikes could also imply that the car has been stored for extended periods, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion on brake components, binding calipers, or rust in the undercarriage. It is prudent to consider the vehicle’s exposure to prolonged idling or parking in damp or salty environments, as these factors can accelerate corrosion-related failures. Given the recurring brake advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system during the purchase process. The offside front brake disc showing wear, pitting, or scoring warrants immediate attention, as prolonged exposure to such conditions can compromise braking performance and increase the risk of failure. Symptoms to watch for during a test drive include a reduced braking response, especially on the offside front wheel, or a grinding or squealing noise when applying the brake pedal. The thin brake pads should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent metal-to-metal contact, which can cause further damage to the discs and generate excessive heat. Additionally, the buyer should check for uneven tyre wear, which could indicate brake drag or misalignment, and listen for any unusual noises during braking, such as clattering or vibration. For the broader vehicle inspection, the buyer should focus on age-appropriate checks that address potential issues arising from the vehicle’s mileage and usage profile. Given the Qashqai’s age, the tyres should be examined for signs of sidewall perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can compromise their structural integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, particularly if the car has been stored for extended periods, as standing corrosion can lead to poor starting performance or electrical system failures. The suspension system, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should be inspected for signs of wear, such as excessive play, clunking noises during cornering, or visible damage. The exhaust system should be checked for leaks, rust, or structural integrity, especially around the catalytic converter and muffler, as these components can degrade over time. Finally, the buyer should verify that the vehicle’s service history aligns with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, particularly for fluid servicing such as the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, which should be replaced at specified calendar-based intervals rather than mileage-dependent ones. If the service book is incomplete, the buyer should request records for the last oil change, brake fluid flush, and any suspension or brake component replacements.