2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · LP62 OBR

The most recent MOT test on the 2013 Nissan Qashqai occurred on 2025-10-13, where the vehicle passed with a clean slate aside from a single minor defect—near-side obligatory mirror slightly loose—and a persistent but non-severe oil leak advisory. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is stable rather than deteriorating, with no major failures or repeated critical issues beyond the recurring oil leak and suspension arm bush wear. The minor lamp faults from 2023 and 2024 were resolved, and the previous year’s failure was primarily due to position lamp defects, which are easily rectified and not indicative of broader mechanical neglect. The consistent passing of MOTs despite some advisories suggests the vehicle is well-maintained in terms of core roadworthiness, though the owner should address the oil leak and suspension wear promptly to prevent compounding issues. The recorded mileage of 39,679 miles for a 13-year-old Qashqai is notably low, averaging just 3,052 miles annually—a rate that suggests either light usage, long periods of inactivity, or a vehicle kept in a controlled environment. Such low mileage can mask wear from standing corrosion, particularly in the brake systems, suspension components, and exhaust components, which are more prone to degradation when stationary for extended periods. The suspension arm bush wear advisories, though not severe, may indicate that the vehicle has been subjected to minor stress from prolonged idling or uneven loading, potentially leading to further deterioration if not serviced. Additionally, the thin brake pads and pitted discs from 2023 suggest that the brake system has been underutilised, which can result in corrosion buildup on brake discs and calipers, leading to binding or reduced braking efficiency if not addressed. For a prospective buyer, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the oil leak, which could stem from a worn or failing oil seal in the engine, transmission, or differential. Inspect under the vehicle for any dark oil stains around the engine bay, transmission housing, or rear axle area, and listen for a rhythmic dripping sound when the engine is running—particularly at idle. The suspension arm bush wear advisories warrant a visual inspection of the front and rear suspension arms for excessive play or cracks, and a test drive should reveal any clunking noises from the front suspension when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. The thin brake pads and pitted discs should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent corrosion from spreading to the calipers, which could cause binding or reduced braking performance. Additionally, given the low mileage, the tyre condition should be scrutinised for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with minimal use over time, especially if the tyres have been stored in a warm or damp environment. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should verify the service history for the oil change intervals and fluid condition, as low-mileage vehicles can still suffer from degraded engine oil or coolant due to prolonged standing. Check the 12V battery health by testing its voltage when the engine is off and ensuring it holds a charge, as standing vehicles can lead to sulphation or terminal failure. The exhaust system should be inspected for signs of rust or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler, as low usage can accelerate rusting in these components. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the undercarriage for rust, particularly in the wheel arches and beneath the rear axle, is essential, as standing corrosion can compromise structural integrity without obvious signs. If the vehicle has been in a garage or covered storage, this is less of a concern, but if exposed to the elements, rust prevention should be a priority.