2014 Nissan X-Trail 1.6L Diesel · LS64 RBZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 2 April 2026 resulted in a PASS, although it was accompanied by five advisories and followed closely by a fail on 28 March 2026 where a major defect was recorded for excessive wear on the nearside front lower suspension arm rear bush. The maintenance trend across the past four MOT cycles is clearly one of gradual deterioration rather than improvement. Advisories for perished front lower suspension arm rear bushes have appeared consistently since the 2023 test, progressing from initial perishing to splitting by 2024 and culminating in an outright failure in early 2026. Additional advisories concerning corroded rear lower suspension arms, perished front track rod end ball joint boots, deteriorated headlight lenses, and perished rear tyres have all accumulated in the latest test, suggesting that the vehicle is entering a phase where multiple chassis and rubber components are simultaneously reaching the end of their effective service life. While the most recent pass is legally valid, the volume and nature of advisories indicate that this X-Trail is due for substantial suspension and rolling component refurbishment in the near term. The mileage is notably low for a 2014 vehicle, averaging approximately 5,600 miles per year across twelve years. This level of use is considerably below the national average for a vehicle of this age and suggests either light private use or extended periods of standing. Although lower mileage typically reduces wear on high-rev components such as the engine and clutch, it brings its own mechanical concerns. Long periods of inactivity commonly lead to corrosion of brake discs and callipers, deterioration of brake fluid through moisture absorption, degradation of the 12V battery, and the perishing of rubber components through age rather than use, the very issues now manifesting in the MOT record. Prospective buyers should treat the suspension advisories as the primary area of attention. The recurring failure of the front lower arm rear bushes is characteristic of NISSAN vehicles of this era and the perished rear lower arms now flagged for corrosion represent a progression that will soon require renewal. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, particularly from the nearside where the major defect was recorded. Check for uneven inner or outer tyre wear which often points to worn bushes or failing track rod ends, and pay close attention to steering vagueness or a tendency to wander, as perished track rod end boots typically indicate joint wear that follows shortly afterwards. Beyond the suspension, the advisories for perished rear tyres and a perished offside rear tyre recorded in 2025 strongly indicate age-related rubber degradation rather than tread wear. Examine all four tyres carefully, including the sidewalls, for cracking, checking the production date on the sidewall markings, as tyres older than six years should be replaced regardless of remaining tread. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust and ensure the callipers are not seizing by confirming the vehicle rolls freely when released on a level surface. Given the prolonged low-use profile, verify that the brake fluid and engine coolant have been changed within the recommended calendar intervals, test the 12V battery under load, and confirm that the cam belt or chain, along with the automatic transmission fluid if fitted, has been serviced in accordance with the manufacturer schedule, as time-based degradation is more relevant than mileage-based servicing for a vehicle of this usage pattern.