2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · LP12 UTL

The most recent MOT on 13 May 2026 was passed, but it carried four advisories covering an off‑side rear sub‑frame pin or bush, a near‑side front brake disc showing scoring, cracked lower‑arm ball‑joint dust covers and the topping‑up of 5W‑30 oil. Over the previous five years the pattern has moved from a clean record in 2022 to a steady accumulation of wear items – brake discs and pads, tyre perishing and deteriorating dust‑cover boots – indicating a gradual decline in component condition rather than an improvement, although none of the issues have yet breached the failure thresholds. At 70,535 mi the Qashqai averages just over 5,000 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑12 000 mi annually. Such low mileage often points to long periods of idle storage or predominantly short‑haul driving. While low mileage reduces cumulative mechanical wear, age‑related degradation of rubber, seals and metal corrosion can progress irrespective of distance, and components such as brake discs, tyres and suspension bushings may have suffered from lack of regular heating and movement. A prospective buyer should concentrate on the items flagged repeatedly. Inspect the rear sub‑frame bush for play by rocking the rear wheel while the vehicle is lifted; any clunk or excessive movement suggests imminent replacement. Examine the front lower‑arm and near‑side ball‑joint dust‑cover boots for cracks or missing material – compromised boots allow moisture and grit to infiltrate the joints, leading to premature wear and possible steering looseness. During a test drive listen for metallic clunks when negotiating bumps, feel for any wandering or vague steering response, and monitor the brake pedal for shudder or pulsation which would indicate disc thinning or uneven pad wear. Verify that the front brake discs are still within the minimum thickness (usually 22 mm for this model) and that pads have sufficient remaining material; the presence of thin pads on both axles is a clear sign that a brake service will be required soon. Check all four tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry rotting or uneven tread, especially the rear‑side tyre that has been noted as perishing; replace any tyre that shows age‑related cracking even if the tread depth appears acceptable. Given the vehicle’s age, also assess the condition of the 12 V battery, the corrosion state of the chassis and under‑body panels, and the colour and clarity of engine oil, coolant and brake fluid – fluids degrade over time and should be refreshed at least every two years. Confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑chain inspections and any recommended suspension or steering component replacements. A thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic, focusing on the sub‑frame bush, suspension dust covers, brake discs/pads and tyre integrity, will give a clear picture of the imminent maintenance outlay and the overall roadworthiness of this low‑mileage Qashqai.