2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FX66 OOJ

A pattern of recurring front suspension wear advisories has emerged across the MOT history of this Qashqai, with the most recent test on 2026-06-11 also introducing bilateral play in the track rod end ball joints and worn front brake discs. While none of these defects have yet been severe enough to trigger a failure, the cumulative picture shows a front-end that has been progressively flagging for two to three years running. The 2024 and 2025 tests both noted worn lower arm pins or bushes on both sides, and this latest pass carries that concern forward while adding steering joint play to the list. The vehicle has recorded five straight passes with no failures, which is a positive baseline, but the rising density of advisories on steering and suspension components points to wear that is advancing rather than static. Mileage sits at 145,677 on a ten-year-old vehicle, equating to approximately 14,568 miles annually, which is above the typical UK average for a car of this age. The annual gap between tests remains consistent at roughly 12,000 to 16,000 miles per year, indicating steady high-use rather than periods of inactivity or dramatic mileage spikes. There are no extended lay-up gaps in the testing record, with the first MOT appearing in 2019 and continuing annually without interruption. This is a working vehicle that has covered substantial distance consistently, which carries clear mechanical implications for wear items such as suspension bushes, brake discs and pads, steering components, and drivetrain mountings. Higher annual mileage of this nature typically accelerates the replacement interval of rubber, friction, and jointed components, particularly at the front axle where this Qashqai is concentrating its advisories. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension and steering assembly should be the primary focus of any inspection. The recurring advisories on both lower arm pins or bushes, alongside the new track rod end ball joint play on both sides, suggest that a complete front suspension refresh including arms, bushes, and track rod ends is likely due. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, particularly clattering over harsher bumps where worn bushes allow excessive movement. Check for wandering or imprecise steering response, any vibration through the wheel at speed, and uneven or premature front tyre wear which would indicate bush deterioration. The front brake discs were also flagged as worn at the latest test, so brake pedal feel should be assessed for any judder under heavy braking, and a physical check of disc lip thickness and runout is warranted given the mileage. The braking system more broadly should be evaluated alongside the suspension work. Rear brake pads were noted as wearing thin in 2024, and given the high mileage, a thorough check of pad material, disc condition, and caliper slide operation at all four corners is sensible. On test, listen for any binding or dragging sensation, particularly from the rear, and confirm the handbrake holds on an incline. The tyres should also be inspected for uneven shoulder wear, which would confirm alignment or suspension geometry concerns consistent with the recorded advisories. Finally, have the underside examined for any signs of corrosion on the subframe, brake pipes, and fuel lines, as the high-mileage working history combined with age makes these areas worth confirming are still structurally sound before purchase.