2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · LS61 AOZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 January 2026 resulted in a PASS, though the test was conducted immediately after a fail the previous day, suggesting the vehicle was repaired and re-presented. On the passing test, two minors were recorded for severe deterioration of both the nearside front inner and offside front outer constant velocity joint boots. While these are classed as minor defects, they indicate compromised driveshaft gaiters requiring prompt attention to prevent lubricant loss and grit ingress that would accelerate joint wear. Looking across the three most recent test cycles, there is a clear and persistent pattern of recurring front suspension and drivetrain issues, including anti-roll bar ball joint deterioration, suspension arm ball joint dust cover failure, and the aforementioned CV boot defects. Combined with multiple advisories for corroded rear coil springs and general rear suspension corrosion, the overall trend suggests an ageing chassis where corrosion-related wear is progressively advancing rather than improving. With 135,005 miles recorded over approximately fifteen years, the Qashqai is averaging around 9,000 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and consistent with regular mixed-use driving. The mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than showing unusual gaps or rapid accumulation, which is generally favourable as it implies consistent running and less likelihood of standing-related deterioration such as seized brakes, perished rubber, or stale fluids. That said, the cumulative mileage remains substantial, and the recorded wear on suspension joints, brake components, and tyres is consistent with a vehicle that has covered considerable distance over its service life. A prospective buyer should approach this Qashqai with particular attention to the front suspension geometry, given the recurring advisories and failures related to anti-roll bar linkages and lower arm ball joints. On a test drive, listen for clonking or rattling noises from the front end over uneven surfaces, particularly when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for vagueness or imprecise steering response which can indicate worn drop links or bushes. The corrosion advisories on the rear coil springs and general rear suspension components warrant a physical inspection on a ramp or over a pit, looking for visible surface rust, scaling, or any signs of structural compromise around the spring seats, trailing arms, and subframe mounting points. The recent tyre failure at the front nearside and the advisories for edge wear on both front and rear tyres across multiple tests suggest possible wheel alignment issues, so checking for uneven shoulder wear and confirming a recent four-wheel geometry printout would be prudent. Given the vehicle's age, the buyer should also carry out age-related inspections that do not necessarily show in MOT records. Examine all tyres closely for sidewall cracking or perishing from age-related rubber degradation, regardless of remaining tread depth, and inspect the exhaust system for corrosion around the heat shield mounting points, particularly at the rear as flagged in the latest test. Check the 12 volt battery for its date stamp and resting voltage, as batteries over five years old are prone to failure especially in colder months. Verify the service history documentation for evidence of regular brake fluid and coolant changes, since both fluids degrade on a calendar basis and a fifteen year old vehicle with unclear servicing may have lost its corrosion inhibitor protection internally. Finally, request evidence that the CV boots noted on the latest test have been replaced, as continued driving on deteriorated gaiters will rapidly destroy the constant velocity joints, leading to far more expensive remedial work.