2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LM65 CWC

The most recent MOT test for this 2015 Nissan Qashqai was conducted on 2025-10-25 and resulted in a passing outcome, following a previous failure in the same month for a minor registration plate lamp defect. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of stability, with the majority of tests passing without defects and only two recorded advisories related to rear shock absorbers showing light oil misting, both in 2023 and 2024. The single major failure in 2020—an exhaust emissions issue—has since been resolved, indicating that while the vehicle has encountered some minor mechanical concerns, the overall trend is consistent with routine wear and age-related checks rather than progressive deterioration. The absence of repeated failures or critical advisories suggests that the owner has maintained a reasonable maintenance schedule, though the recurring shock absorber advisories warrant closer attention to prevent potential suspension degradation over time. The recorded mileage of 71,081 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,462 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This figure does not suggest excessive wear from high mileage accumulation, though it does imply some degree of regular use, particularly given the lack of significant mileage gaps. Lower mileage figures might indicate periods of inactivity or lighter usage, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion on components like the exhaust system or brake components, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Conversely, higher mileage could accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension elements, and drivetrain fluids, but the current mileage does not appear to be excessively high for the vehicle’s age. It is prudent to consider whether the usage pattern aligns with the owner’s typical driving habits, as this can influence the likelihood of hidden wear or maintenance needs. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in this vehicle are the suspension system and exhaust emissions components, given the recurring advisories and past failure. The light misting of oil in the offside rear shock absorbers is a common but concerning indicator of internal wear. On a test drive, listen for uneven suspension clunks or a loss of ride control when cornering or over bumps, which may suggest that the shock absorbers are nearing failure. Inspect the shocks visually for signs of bulging or oil leaks, and consider replacing them if the misting persists or if the vehicle exhibits excessive body roll or bottoming out during acceleration. Additionally, the previous exhaust emissions failure highlights the importance of ensuring the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors are functioning correctly. Test for smooth acceleration and check for any unusual engine noise or hesitation, which could indicate persistent emissions issues. A professional diagnostic check of the exhaust system and emissions control system would be advisable to confirm resolution of the 2020 failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, this vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a thorough inspection of the structural and fluid integrity components. Given the 11-year age and moderate mileage, pay particular attention to the tyre condition, particularly the sidewalls, which may show signs of perishing or cracking due to age-related degradation. Check for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues that were not caught in the MOT. The 12-volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and overall health, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, as standing corrosion can lead to reduced braking performance. Additionally, verify the service history for fluid replacements, such as the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluids, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, even if the vehicle has not reached the mileage-based service intervals. Finally, consider a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to address any hidden wear or potential issues not flagged by the MOT, especially given the recurring suspension advisories.