2015 Nissan X-Trail 1.6L Diesel · HG15 UPC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 8 July 2026, was passed but recorded several advisories – a damaged windscreen, slight perishing of both rear tyres and a small amount of free play in the nearside steering rack. Over the last four years the pattern shows a steady presence of minor faults rather than a clear improvement: recurring oil‑leak advisories, deteriorating ball‑joint and track‑rod dust covers and the gradual emergence of tyre perishing. Although none of these items have caused a failure at the latest test, the repeated nature of the same components suggests that wear is progressing rather than being fully addressed. At 92 434 miles the X‑Trail has averaged roughly 8 400 miles per year since its 2015 registration. This is within the normal UK usage envelope and does not indicate any periods of extreme mileage accumulation or long-term storage. The mileage is sufficiently moderate that consumables such as brake pads, clutch and timing chain are unlikely to be at the end of their service lives solely on distance, but the age of the vehicle means calendar‑based degradation of rubber and fluid components must be considered. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the rear tyres – the MOT advisories point to sidewall cracking and perishing, which can lead to sudden loss of grip or tyre failure, especially in wet conditions. Look for any visible cracks, bulges or tread edge damage, and feel for a hard, dry sidewall when pressing with a thumb. The steering rack free play should be checked by turning the wheel at lock and listening for any clunk or feeling for a vague wobble; excessive play can cause uneven tyre wear and reduced steering precision. The oil leak noted in three consecutive years, although not excessive, warrants locating the source – common culprits are the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or crankcase breather – and confirming that oil levels are stable and that there is no oil on the exhaust or under the engine. The ball‑joint and track‑rod dust covers have been flagged as deteriorating; inspect the lower suspension arms and track‑rod ends for any looseness, uneven tyre wear on the inside or outside edges, and any audible clunk when the vehicle is driven over bumps. Replacing the dust covers and, if necessary, the ball‑joint bushings will prevent dirt ingress that can accelerate wear. Beyond the specific MOT items, a vehicle of this age should be examined for age‑related issues. Check the windscreen for any chips that could spread and impair visibility, and verify that the wiper blades are still effective. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester – a battery over ten years old often loses capacity even if it still starts the engine. Verify that the brake discs are not excessively corroded or scored, and that the pads have sufficient thickness; a shudder or pulsation when braking would indicate disc wear. Finally, confirm that the service history shows regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and timing‑belt (or chain) inspections at the manufacturer’s intervals, as fluids degrade with time regardless of mileage. Addressing these points will give you a clear picture of the X‑Trail’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a fully reliable condition.