2014 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LS14 PSX

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 October 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, and the preceding test of 7 October 2024 also passed with no advisories. This indicates that the front suspension and steering component issues flagged as Minor defects in the 2023 and early 2024 tests have not deteriorated into failure items, suggesting either that the deteriorating dust covers were monitored or that remedial work was carried out between tests. However, the broader history reveals a previously fractured offside rear coil spring which caused a failure in March 2022, alongside recurring deterioration of the front suspension arm ball joint dust covers and the nearside front track rod end ball joint dust cover. The overall trajectory appears stable at present, but the recurrence of front end rubber component deterioration across consecutive tests warrants continued attention, as compromised dust covers allow the ingress of dirt and moisture, accelerating wear on the underlying ball joints themselves. The recorded mileage of 73,265 miles across a 12-year service life equates to an annual average of approximately 6,105 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment rather than unusually low or high. The MOT records do not display any significant gaps in annual mileage that would indicate prolonged periods of standing, nor do they suggest excessively rapid accumulation that would imply heavy commercial or motorway use. This moderate usage profile is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as it avoids both the corrosion and dry joint issues associated with low-mileage or stored vehicles and the accelerated wear of clutches, brakes, and suspension components seen in high-mileage examples. The consistent yearly testing pattern also suggests the vehicle has remained in regular active service throughout its life, supporting drivetrain health but confirming that consumable wear has progressed at a normal pace. Given the recurring advisories relating to the front suspension arm ball joint dust covers and the track rod end ball joint dust cover, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful physical inspection and an attentive test drive. On inspection, examine the front suspension and steering assembly for any perishing, cracking, or splitting of the rubber gaiters protecting the front suspension arm ball joints and the track rod end, as these have been flagged as severely deteriorated or damaged in three of the recent tests. Listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, and pay particular attention to any vagueness in steering response or uneven tyre wear across the front axle, particularly inner or outer edge wear patterns which would indicate failing ball joints or worn suspension bushes. It is also prudent to verify whether the fractured offside rear coil spring noted in 2022 was replaced with a genuine Nissan component or aftermarket alternative, as aftermarket springs of inferior quality may fracture prematurely, and a failed rear coil spring can present as a noticeable drop in ride height on one side or unusual bouncing behaviour over undulating surfaces. Beyond the flagged component history, a twelve-year-old vehicle with moderate mileage warrants a series of age-appropriate physical checks regardless of MOT outcome. Inspect all four tyres, including the spare if fitted, for sidewall cracking or perishing from age, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age even where tread depth remains adequate, and check the manufacturing date codes on the sidewalls. Examine the brake discs for any significant corrosion or lipping around the outer edges, which can indicate binding calipers, and verify that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline, as rear caliper mechanisms can seize on vehicles that see predominantly urban or short journey use. Check the 12V battery for its date stamp and overall condition, as batteries typically require replacement every five to seven years, and inspect the bodywork, wheel arches, and underbody for any surface corrosion that may have developed since the last MOT, particularly around suspension mounting points and subframe areas. Finally, confirm that the service book or digital service history demonstrates regular oil and filter changes at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, and verify the condition and age of the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as these degrade over time irrespective of mileage and should be renewed on a calendar basis to maintain long-term mechanical integrity.