2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LL66 AYS

The most recent MOT test on 2024-07-17 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from the previous two years, where the vehicle exhibited a mix of minor advisories and one failure. While the 2023-02-09 test showed a front windscreen wiper defect that required immediate attention, the subsequent tests in 2024 have largely resolved these issues, indicating a stable maintenance trend with no recurring critical failures. The advisories from 2024-02-01—particularly the suspension arm pin or bush wear and exhaust hanger leak—were non-failing conditions that do not currently pose an immediate roadworthiness risk but warrant closer monitoring, as they suggest gradual wear progression that could escalate over time if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 54,090 miles at the time of this assessment reflects a typical annual usage rate of around 6,010 miles, which is consistent with its age of approximately nine years. This level of mileage is moderate for a nine-year-old car, particularly if it has been used primarily for commuting or light daily driving rather than high-mileage conditions. However, the presence of a child seat in the nearside rear during some MOT tests may indicate periods of prolonged stationary use, which can accelerate wear on components like the steering system and suspension, as well as contribute to fluid degradation if fluids were not regularly topped up. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests consistent ownership, but buyers should be aware that prolonged idling or infrequent driving can lead to issues such as brake disc corrosion, suspension binding, or fluid stagnation. Given the advisories from the 2024-02-01 MOT, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the front lower suspension arms for signs of excessive play, binding, or further wear beyond the recorded bush condition. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, as this may indicate failing suspension components or loose bushings. The exhaust hanger leak should be addressed promptly to prevent further corrosion or emissions-related issues, as exhaust leaks can lead to reduced engine efficiency and increased carbon monoxide emissions. During a test drive, check for a rough ride, uneven tyre wear patterns, or any signs of exhaust backpressure, which could signal underlying problems. For the windscreen wiper defect noted in 2023, the wiper blade should be replaced immediately to ensure effective windscreen clearance, especially in adverse weather conditions. The tyre advisories from 2024-02-01—particularly the nearside rear and offside front side wall damage—highlight the importance of monitoring tyre condition closely. Inspect the tyres for signs of excessive dry rot, cracks, or tread depth loss, as these can compromise safety and lead to blowouts. The nearside rear tyre’s cracking may also indicate internal damage that could affect tyre integrity over time. Additionally, since the vehicle has been used with a child seat, ensure the seat is securely installed and not interfering with the driver’s seat belt during an MOT inspection. For age-related checks, verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged use can lead to corrosion or reduced capacity, and inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion or binding, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Finally, consider a fluid top-up or refresh for the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time, even with moderate mileage.