2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · GY18 KFC

The 2018 Nissan Qashqai presents a generally sound mechanical picture, but the most recent MOT on 14 April 2026 at 60,872 miles reveals a developing pattern of front-end wear that warrants attention. While the vehicle passed, the tester flagged multiple suspension component dust covers in deteriorated condition. Both nearside and offside front suspension arm ball joint dust covers were severely deteriorated, and both front track rod end ball joint dust covers were damaged or deteriorated, though still preventing the ingress of dirt. These are not immediate failures, but they indicate the protective boots are perishing, which accelerates joint wear and can lead to play, knocking, and eventual failure if left unaddressed. The trend is worsening compared to the clean bills of health recorded in 2022, 2023, and 2025, suggesting the front suspension has seen harder use or simply aged without proactive replacement of these relatively low-cost rubber components. The mileage pattern is consistent and unremarkable. The vehicle has covered approximately 13,210 miles in the twelve months between the April 2025 test at 47,662 miles and the April 2026 test at 60,872 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical annual range for a family crossover of this age. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden spikes in accumulation that would raise concerns about the vehicle having been standing idle or clocked. The steady progression from 25,849 miles in April 2022 through to the current 60,872 miles reflects regular, sustained use, which is generally kinder to a vehicle than prolonged periods of inactivity. A prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection on the front suspension and steering components. The repeated advisory on ball joint and track rod end dust covers means the joints themselves should be checked for play, clicking under load, and uneven wear patterns that would indicate contamination has already taken hold. The front tyres deserve close scrutiny for uneven wear, particularly on the inner edges, which would confirm alignment issues or worn joints. The rear registration plate advisory is trivial but worth verifying the plate is legible and secure. Beyond the flagged items, a thorough check of the exhaust system for corrosion, the brake discs and pads for condition given the mileage, and the underside for any signs of structural rust or impact damage would round out a sensible pre-purchase assessment. The vehicle has clearly been used rather than neglected, and with attention to the front suspension wear items, it should remain a dependable daily driver.