2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · LM10 EKY

The most recent MOT, dated 12 June 2026, resulted in a failure due to an insufficient windscreen washer fluid supply, while the overall test was recorded as passed apart from that advisory. Over the past three years the pattern shows a steady accumulation of minor advisories – recurring oil‑drip notes, progressive wear on rear brake pads, corrosion of the rear coil springs and emerging play in front track‑rod ends – but no major safety‑critical failures. The trend is therefore mildly deteriorating, with wear items becoming more frequent and a few electrical and fluid‑supply issues now appearing, suggesting that the vehicle is entering a phase where preventative maintenance will be increasingly important to keep it road‑worthy. At 182 005 mi the Qashqai averages roughly 11 400 mi per annum, which is typical for a 2010 model. The mileage does not indicate any prolonged periods of inactivity, yet the relatively high total distance means that consumables such as suspension bushes, bushings, brake discs and tyres will have experienced considerable wear. The combination of age and mileage also raises the likelihood of internal corrosion in the chassis and exhaust system, especially where surface rust has already been noted, and it increases the probability of fluid degradation in the engine, gearbox and brake circuits. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the oil leak that has been flagged each year; although classified as “not excessive,” any persistent seepage can eventually lead to low oil level, increased engine wear or overheating. Inspect the engine bay for fresh oil stains around the valve cover, oil filter housing and front and rear crankcase seals, and verify that the oil level is correct after a short run. The rear brake pads have been recorded as thin on both sides and the rear parking brake was only just meeting efficiency, so the brakes should be examined for pad thickness, disc surface condition and any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes. Listen for squeal or grinding on deceleration, feel for any pull to one side, and check that the parking brake holds the vehicle firmly on a slight incline. The off‑side rear tyre contained a nail and the front track‑rod end shows slight play, so a thorough tyre inspection for punctures, sidewall cracking and uneven wear is essential, and the front steering linkage should be checked for looseness or binding when turning the wheel at low speed. Additional items to verify include the broken engine earth wire, which can cause intermittent electrical gremlins, and the deteriorated windscreen washer system that led to the recent failure – ensure the washer pump operates and that the fluid is delivered to both windscreen and rear windows. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the battery for sulphation and confirm it holds charge under load, as a 12‑V unit past ten years often requires replacement. Examine the under‑body for progression of the reported surface rust and for any corrosion of the rear coil springs, which could affect ride quality and handling. Finally, confirm that the service history shows regular oil and filter changes, timing‑belt or chain service at the manufacturer’s interval, and that any previous brake or suspension work has been recorded, as these will give confidence that the emerging wear items have been addressed in a timely manner.