2012 Nissan Qashqai 2.0L Diesel · KA08 BAZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2012 Nissan Qashqai was conducted on 26 January 2026, at which point the vehicle passed, although it carries a set of advisories that reflect ongoing corrosion concerns across both the front and rear sub-frames and coil springs. It is worth noting that an earlier test on the same date recorded a failure, although the defect details provided indicate only the advisory items were noted at that time. Looking at the broader MOT history across 2024 and 2025, the pattern shows a recurring theme of structural and suspension-related corrosion advisories that have persisted and, in some cases, expanded, with both rear suspension arms appearing as advisories in 2025 that were not previously flagged. The maintenance trend appears stable rather than worsening in a critical sense, as the vehicle continues to pass its roadworthiness test, but the accumulation and recurrence of corrosion advisories across multiple test cycles suggest that structural and suspension deterioration is progressing and warrants close scrutiny. With 92,127 miles recorded on a 14-year-old vehicle, the Qashqai has covered approximately 6,580 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and indicates regular use rather than long periods of standing. This level of usage is generally beneficial for mechanical health, as it helps prevent issues associated with vehicles that remain stationary for extended periods, such as brake disc corrosion, fluid degradation, and seized components. The relatively consistent annual mileage suggests the vehicle has been driven regularly, which typically means wear on consumable items like brakes, tyres, and clutches has been progressive rather than concentrated, and there are no obvious red flags from rapid mileage accumulation that might indicate motorway fleet use or towing stress on the drivetrain. The recurring advisories on the rear and front sub-frames, although assessed as not seriously weakened, indicate that corrosion is established on these structural components and will continue to progress over time. A prospective buyer should physically inspect the sub-frames on a ramp or with a torch, paying particular attention to areas around mounting points, mounting bushes, and welded seams where corrosion can advance unseen. On a test drive, listen for any clonks, rattles, or knocks from the suspension, particularly over uneven surfaces, speed bumps, or during direction changes, as corroded coil springs and worn suspension arm bushes can produce audible symptoms and may affect handling precision. The advisories on the nearside rear and offside front coil springs, alongside the rear suspension arm corrosion flagged in 2025, suggest that a complete suspension refresh including springs, bushes, and possibly dampers may be required within the next 12 to 24 months. Additionally, the 2024 advisory noting slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and wear in the rear bush should be followed up, as ball joint wear progresses and can lead to failed MOT results if play becomes excessive. Given the vehicle's age and the persistent corrosion advisories, a thorough physical inspection should also include checks for tyre sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on older tyres regardless of tread depth, and a verification of tyre manufacture dates through the DOT markings. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries typically require replacement every five to seven years and a failing battery can cause starting issues and electronic faults. Brake discs should be examined for corrosion ridges, especially around the outer edges where rust can accumulate during wet weather, and the callipers should be checked for smooth operation and freedom from seizure. Time-based fluid servicing should be verified, including engine oil and filter changes, brake fluid replacement (typically every two years due to its hygroscopic nature), and coolant renewal, as calendar-aged fluids degrade even in low-mileage use. Finally, the deteriorated rear registration plate advisory suggests minor cosmetic attention, but the buyer should also inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points, the catalytic converter for security, and the underbody generally for any emerging corrosion that might not yet have reached MOT advisory threshold but could become a concern at future tests.