2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LC66 SCZ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 8 July 2026, though the results indicate a downward trend in mechanical condition compared to previous years. While the history was largely clean between 2020 and 2025, the latest inspection has flagged several emerging issues regarding the front suspension and tyre integrity. This suggests that the vehicle is now entering a phase where age-related wear is becoming apparent, shifting from a period of stability to one requiring active maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 38,603 miles over approximately nine years, the vehicle has been used significantly less than the national average, averaging roughly 4,289 miles per year. While this low mileage suggests minimal wear on the engine and gearbox, it introduces specific risks associated with under-use. Vehicles that spend long periods stationary are more prone to the degradation of rubber components, fluid contamination, and potential seizure of braking components due to a lack of regular heat cycles and movement. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the offside front suspension. The reported play in the ball joint and wear in the front bush are common failure points that can lead to imprecise steering and premature tyre wear. During a test drive, listen for metallic clunks or knocks when traversing uneven road surfaces or when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Furthermore, the presence of a nail in the offside rear tyre and perishing on the nearside rear tyre confirms that the rubber is degrading due to age rather than mileage. A full inspection of all tyre sidewalls for hairline cracking is essential, as perishing compromises structural integrity regardless of the remaining tread depth. Given the low annual usage, it is imperative to verify the service history to ensure oil and filter changes have been performed based on time intervals rather than mileage. Check for heavy surface corrosion on the brake discs and ensure the calipers are not binding, which can occur when a car sits for extended periods. The health of the 12V battery should also be tested, as infrequent short trips often fail to maintain a full charge. Finally, ensure the engine coolant and brake fluid have been refreshed according to the manufacturer's calendar-based schedule to prevent internal corrosion of the cooling and braking systems.