2008 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · GF08 FBA

Recurring steering and suspension component issues define the mechanical profile of this Nissan Qashqai, with several years of documented wear in the steering rack and front-end linkages. The most recent test on 12 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after a failure involving an obstructed windscreen view, and it left the vehicle with advisories for steering rack inner joint play and an offside front inner tyre worn close to the legal limit. This follows a pattern of persistent steering and suspension advisories dating back to at least 2022, including repeated mentions of track rod end play and suspension arm bush wear, indicating that while individual components are being addressed, the underlying wear in the steering and suspension geometry is a long-term characteristic of this vehicle. The recorded mileage of 97,376 miles over approximately 18 years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 5,410 miles. This is a low rate of usage for a vehicle of this age, which can often mean that mechanical components are subject to less frequent high-speed running but may be more prone to the degradation of rubber elements such as suspension bushes, anti-roll bar linkage dust covers, and tyre sidewalls due to age rather than distance. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing without significant gaps, providing a continuous record of the vehicle's condition through various stages of component wear. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the steering and suspension during a test drive to assess the impact of the documented play in the steering rack inner joints and track rod ends. Listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the previously flagged suspension arm ball joints or anti-roll bar linkages are still nearing the end of their service life. Additionally, the presence of an advisory for a light oil leak in 2024, alongside previous mentions of suspension arm corrosion, warrants a visual inspection of the engine bay and underbody to check for any signs of increased seepage or structural degradation. Braking components also require scrutiny, as the 2024 record noted thin rear brake pads and scored low discs. During the test drive, check for any pedal judder or pulsation when applying the brakes, particularly at higher speeds, which can be a symptom of disc surface irregularities. The history of various lighting failures, including headlamp aim and registration plate lamps, suggests that electrical connections or bulb housings should be checked for secure fitment and correct operation. Finally, given the recent advisory regarding tyre wear on the edge, ensure the tyre tread is sufficient and check for any uneven wear patterns that might indicate ongoing alignment issues stemming from the steering rack play.