2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LO66 VHH

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Nissan Qashqai, conducted on 2026-05-12, resulted in a clean pass with only minor defects related to front suspension components—specifically, deteriorated dust covers on both sides of the front track rod end ball joint and the front suspension arm ball joint. These findings, while not failing the vehicle outright, indicate a recurring issue with suspension component integrity, particularly in the lower control arms and associated bushings. The pattern of minor failures in 2026 contrasts sharply with the previous three years, during which the vehicle passed with no recorded defects or only advisories related to brake pad wear and tyre condition. This suggests a stabilization in the vehicle’s maintenance status, though the presence of persistent minor failures in 2026 warrants further attention to prevent potential long-term wear progression in these critical suspension elements. The recorded mileage of 59,432 miles for a vehicle aged ten years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 5,943 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for its age. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of prolonged stationary use, particularly if the vehicle was parked in a garage or climate-controlled environment, which mitigates some wear and tear. However, this usage profile does not necessarily equate to reduced mechanical stress on components like brakes, suspension, or drivetrain, as standing vehicles can still suffer from issues such as corrosion in brake systems, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in hydraulic systems over time. The absence of significant mileage accumulation in recent years may also mask underlying wear that could become apparent with increased use, especially if the vehicle is intended for higher-frequency driving. Given the recent MOT findings and the vehicle’s age and mileage, prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the front control arms and ball joints. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises during cornering or over bumps, which could indicate worn or failing suspension bushes or ball joints. Inspect the front suspension for uneven tyre wear patterns, as this may signal misalignment or binding in the steering or suspension components. Additionally, check for any signs of oil leaks around the wheel wells or suspension mounts, which could confirm the deterioration of the dust covers noted in the MOT. Brake system health should also be scrutinised, with a focus on the rear brakes, which have consistently shown thin pad wear across multiple MOTs. Test for brake shudder during deceleration, which may indicate warped discs or uneven pad wear, and ensure there is no binding in the calipers when applying the brakes. For the tyre condition, the advisories from previous MOTs regarding sidewall cracking and perishing—particularly on the offside rear tyre—highlight the need for a visual inspection of all tyres for signs of dry rot or internal damage. Tyres aged around ten years, even with relatively low mileage, are at risk of cracking due to ozone and UV exposure, which can compromise their structural integrity. Measure the remaining tread depth and check for any bulges or irregular wear patterns that could indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues. The battery should also be tested for health, as prolonged standing can lead to sulphation or corrosion in the terminals, which may require a professional check or replacement if the vehicle has not been used regularly. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider a check of the fluid levels and condition—specifically, the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—due to their susceptibility to degradation over time, even with low mileage. Ensure service records are up to date, particularly for the timing belt, if applicable, and any scheduled maintenance such as valve adjustments or spark plug replacements.