2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · LR16 VLP

A clean and largely untroubled MOT trajectory defines this Qashqai, with the most recent test on 26 January 2026 returning a pass and only a single advisory for thinning rear brake pads. Across the four recorded tests, the only outright failure occurred on 27 January 2024, when both front upper anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers were found to be admitting dirt, alongside a minor defect for an inoperative registration plate lamp. Both anti-roll bar items were repaired to a satisfactory standard, as evidenced by the subsequent clean passes in February 2024, February 2025 and January 2026. The absence of any corrosion advisories, suspension bush defects, exhaust concerns, or brake pipe issues across five years of testing points to a structurally sound and mechanically tidy example, though the recent brake advisory suggests the consumable maintenance cycle is now becoming due. With 160,722 miles accrued at an average of roughly 16,072 per year over a ten-year life, this Qashqai sits firmly in the high-mileage category for its age, almost double the typical annual figure for a vehicle of this vintage. Such accumulation is consistent with sustained motorway or commuter use, and the absence of any multi-year testing gaps suggests the car has remained in regular service rather than suffering long stationary periods that might mask component deterioration. Mechanically, this mileage band places the 1.5 or 1.6 litre drivetrain, clutch assembly, turbocharger (where fitted) and dual-clutch or CVT transmission under elevated wear scrutiny, while suspension components, engine mountings and driveline flex joints will have absorbed considerable cyclical loading. The fact that none of these areas has yet triggered an MOT or advisory is encouraging, but a buyer should still approach them as time-served items requiring close physical inspection rather than taking the test outcome as proof of remaining service life. Given the January 2026 advisory for thinning rear brake pads, a prospective buyer should inspect the rear calipers, carriers and discs for scoring or lipping, and confirm whether the discs themselves were measured within limits or are likely to require machining or replacement alongside the pads. Binding calipers or a reluctant handbrake mechanism are common Qashqai issues at this mileage, so the rear brakes should feel progressive and the vehicle should not pull to one side under firm pedal application. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or scraping from the rear corners during low-speed stops, and check that the handbrake holds firmly on a slope without excessive lever travel. The failed anti-roll bar dust covers from January 2024 warrant attention to the front suspension geometry, as perished or split boots typically allow grit to enter the ball joints and accelerate wear of the internal components. During a road test, the car should remain composed over undulating surfaces with no clonking or rattling from the front end, and the steering should respond predictably without vagueness or vibration through the wheel. Listen specifically for any knocks from the front strut towers or anti-roll bar drop links when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and check that the front tyres exhibit even shoulder wear across both axles, as asymmetric wear can indicate worn bushes or weakened springs. Finally, given the high mileage, a compression test, inspection of the timing chain or belt service history, and a thorough check for any oil seepage from the cam cover, sump or turbo oil feed lines would be prudent before committing to purchase.