2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · JGA 725L

The most recent MOT test conducted on 15 October 2025 resulted in a pass, though this followed a failure due to an excessively worn nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint. Evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a pattern of recurring mechanical issues related to the suspension and consumables. The recent history of a fractured offside rear coil spring in 2024, combined with the anti-roll bar failure in 2025, indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where chassis and suspension components are reaching the end of their functional life. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the trend suggests that maintenance will likely become more frequent as these wear-and-tear items continue to degrade. The recorded mileage of 71,190 miles for an eleven-year-old vehicle represents an average annual usage of approximately 6,472 miles. This is considered low-to-moderate mileage, suggesting the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy long-distance motorway use. While this typically results in less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, low annual mileage can sometimes lead to secondary issues such as component perishing or fluid degradation due to infrequent operation. This is consistent with the 2020 MOT advisories regarding tyre cracking and perishing, which often affect vehicles that spend significant time stationary. When conducting a test drive, you must pay close attention to the vehicle's handling and acoustic profile. Given the recent history of suspension failures, listen specifically for any knocking, clunking, or rhythmic thumping when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as these are classic symptoms of worn suspension bushes or failing ball joints. You should also inspect the tyres thoroughly; the previous advisories regarding rear tyres being worn close to the legal limit and front tyres perishing suggest that the rubber may be nearing the end of its life or may be showing signs of age-related degradation. Check the sidewalls for any fine cracking and ensure the tread wear is even across the width of the tyre to rule out alignment issues. Regarding the braking system, the 2023 advisory for thin brake pads necessitates a careful inspection. Check for any brake shudder or vibration through the pedal when braking at speed, which could indicate warped discs, or listen for any squealing that might suggest worn pads or binding calipers. Additionally, because the vehicle has been driven relatively low miles per year, you should verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as brake fluid replacements and oil changes, has been carried out. Finally, inspect the underbody for signs of corrosion, particularly around the coil spring mounting points, to ensure that the previous advisory regarding spring corrosion has been adequately addressed and has not progressed into structural concern.