2020 Nissan Qashqai 1.7L Diesel · LR70 RBY

The latest MOT test on the 2020 Nissan Qashqai, conducted on 2026-08-11, resulted in a passing grade, though it included several advisories that indicate ongoing wear and potential areas requiring closer attention. The pattern of advisories over the past three years—particularly the repeated warnings about brake pad wear and tyre condition—suggests a maintenance trend that has not fully stabilised. While the vehicle passed the most recent inspection, the presence of multiple advisories, especially those concerning the front brake pads and nearside front and rear tyres approaching legal limits, implies that the owner may have been neglecting critical consumable components or failing to address wear progression promptly. The failure in 2025-08-22, where the offside rear brake pads were below the legal minimum thickness, underscores a critical oversight that could have been mitigated with timely servicing. This history raises concerns about whether the owner has systematically addressed wear-related issues or if the vehicle has been subjected to heavy or irregular use that accelerates component degradation. The recorded mileage of 45,508 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,585 miles, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this model class. However, the absence of a clear service history or mileage gaps suggests either light or intermittent use, which could mask underlying wear or structural issues that become more apparent under heavier load. Lower-than-expected mileage might imply prolonged periods of inactivity, during which certain components—such as brakes, tyres, and suspension—can degrade more rapidly due to standing corrosion, caliper binding, or tyre sidewall perishing. Conversely, if the vehicle has accumulated mileage more rapidly in recent years, the wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and fluid systems could be more pronounced, necessitating a thorough inspection of these areas to avoid unexpected failures. Given the advisories recorded in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the braking system, suspension, and tyres. The nearside front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit indicate that the tread depth has been compromised, which increases the risk of hydroplaning and reduced grip, especially in wet conditions. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel or a spongy feel, which could signal warped discs or air in the brake lines. The offside rear brake pads being worn thin in the previous failed MOT suggest that the braking system may have been under heavy or inconsistent use, leading to uneven pad wear. Inspect the brake discs for pitting, scoring, or excessive corrosion, and check for any binding in the calipers, which could cause uneven braking or a grinding noise when applying the brakes. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is clean and free of contamination, as moisture ingress can lead to corrosion and reduced braking performance. For the suspension and general mechanical integrity, examine the vehicle for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, undercarriage, and brake components, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation. Check the coil springs and suspension bushes for excessive play or clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate wear or failure. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, as emissions-related advisories could point to catalytic converter or muffler issues that may require servicing. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the engine oil, differential fluid, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time even without significant mileage. Ensure the service book is up to date, particularly for the timing belt replacement (if applicable) and other scheduled maintenance tasks, as Nissan recommends specific intervals for these critical components. Finally, test the 12V battery and starter system for responsiveness, as a failing battery can lead to poor starting performance and potential electrical issues. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, a thorough inspection of the electrical system and fluid levels is essential to prevent long-term damage.