2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LS66 UPC

The latest MOT test for the 2016 Nissan Qashqai on 2025-10-01 resulted in a passing outcome, though it did include two significant advisories and minor failures that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is relatively stable, with no repeated major failures or persistent issues beyond the headlamp alignment and suspension ball joint wear recorded in 2025. The headlamp alignment failure in 2024 was a major defect, but it was rectified, and the subsequent MOTs have shown no further alignment issues. The suspension ball joint advisories from 2025 indicate that the vehicle’s front suspension arms are nearing the end of their serviceable life, with the dust covers on both front ball joints severely deteriorated, which is critical as these components are essential for steering stability and shock absorption. This condition should prompt immediate attention, as further deterioration could lead to steering play, uneven tyre wear, or even suspension failure. The recorded mileage of 52,646 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 5,265 miles per year, which is unusual for its age and suggests either minimal operational use or prolonged periods of inactivity. Lower mileage can sometimes mask wear from standing, where components like brake systems, electrical systems, and suspension can degrade due to prolonged exposure to environmental elements. For instance, standing brake discs may develop corrosion or binding calipers, leading to reduced braking efficiency or even failure to stop. Additionally, fluids such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid can degrade over time, even without use, which can compromise performance and safety. The absence of significant mileage accumulation also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven regularly, which could affect the condition of consumables like tyres, filters, and the 12-volt battery, all of which may have been exposed to extended periods of disuse. As a prospective buyer, the most pressing immediate concerns stem from the 2025 MOT advisories related to the front suspension ball joints. The severely deteriorated dust covers on both near and offside ball joints indicate that the ball joints themselves may be worn or nearing failure, which could result in excessive steering play, clunking noises when driving over bumps, or even a complete loss of steering control if not addressed promptly. Before proceeding with purchase, it is essential to inspect the suspension for any signs of play in the steering wheel or unusual noises during a test drive, particularly when navigating rough roads. Additionally, the offside rear tyre’s edge wear suggests it may be underinflated or experiencing directional instability, which could be linked to suspension or alignment issues. A thorough inspection of the rear suspension, alignment, and tyre pressure is recommended to confirm the cause of this wear pattern. Beyond the immediate suspension concerns, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, several age-related checks are critical to ensure long-term reliability and safety. First, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. Even with low mileage, tyres can degrade from prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a less-than-ideal environment. Next, assess the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion on the terminals, swelling, or difficulty cranking the engine, as low-mileage vehicles can sometimes suffer from battery degradation due to prolonged disuse. The brake system should also be inspected for signs of corrosion on the discs, warping, or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Finally, since the vehicle has not been serviced at the recommended intervals for its age, verify that the service book records are up to date or, if not, consider scheduling a comprehensive service to address fluid degradation, filter replacements, and any potential issues related to the suspension or drivetrain. Calendar-based checks for fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should be performed every two years, regardless of mileage, to maintain optimal performance.