2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Petrol · GV10 AAU

The latest MOT test on the 2010 Nissan Qashqai occurred on 2025-10-28, resulting in a passing grade despite the presence of several advisories. While this outcome is positive, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a consistent improvement. The two failed MOTs in 2024 and 2025—particularly the critical failure of the near-side front constant velocity (CV) joint boot in 2025—highlight persistent mechanical wear, suggesting that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to prevent progressive deterioration in key drivetrain and suspension components. The advisories on oil leaks, brake pad wear, and steering play indicate ongoing operational inefficiencies that could escalate into major failures if left unaddressed. The recorded mileage of 104,373 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 16 years reflects a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,523 miles, which is within the expected range for this model’s age and typical UK driving conditions. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage—such as 8,000+ miles annually—suggests either lighter use, longer periods of stationary storage, or a history of lower demand. While lower mileage can mitigate some wear on consumables like brakes and fluids, it does not eliminate the risk of standing-related issues, such as corrosion in brake systems, standing fluid degradation in the cooling or hydraulic circuits, or potential long-term damage to internal components from stagnation. The lack of a clear pattern of rapid mileage accumulation does not preclude the possibility of underlying mechanical stress, particularly in the suspension and drivetrain, where wear accumulates over time regardless of annual distance. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive include the drivetrain and suspension. The history of CV joint boot failures and excessive play in the steering rack inner joints necessitates a thorough check of the near-side and offside CV boots for splits or fluid ingress, as well as the condition of the steering rack bushings for excessive movement or binding. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling in the suspension during cornering, particularly at the lower rear suspension arms, which may indicate worn bushes or pins. The oil leak advisories warrant inspection of the oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, and oil filter housing gasket for signs of leakage, as well as a visual check for oil stains under the vehicle. Brake inspection should include the rear pads, which are noted to be thin, and the discs for warping, scoring, or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Test the braking system for softness, shuddering, or uneven stopping, which could indicate worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and moderate mileage make it prudent to focus on time-based maintenance and potential age-related wear. Given the age, inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, cracks, or separation, as these can compromise structural integrity and safety. Check the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, swelling, or reduced charge capacity, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power during prolonged inactivity. Verify that the cooling system has been serviced within the recommended interval, as stagnant coolant can corrode the water pump, radiator, or hoses. Finally, ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for the CV joint replacement and suspension bushings, as these are critical components that may require replacement before they fail catastrophically. If the vehicle has been stored for significant periods, consider a professional inspection to assess for any hidden corrosion or fluid degradation that may not be apparent during a routine test drive.