2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · LS67 AEN

A pattern of tyre-related advisories combined with a track rod end failure defines the mechanical history of this nine-year-old Qashqai. Across three of the four recorded tests, both rear tyres have been flagged for perishing or cracking, and on the two most recent examinations both front tyres were noted as worn close to the legal limit or showing edge wear. The single failure on file, recorded on 17 October 2025, was caused by excessive play in the offside front track rod end ball joint, a major defect that directly compromises steering precision and safety. A subsequent test on the same date issued a pass, indicating the steering component was replaced before re-examination, though the underlying advisories remained. The 2024 and 2023 tests were recorded entirely clean with no defects noted, suggesting the recent tyre and steering deterioration represents a developing issue rather than a longstanding one. The most recent test on 31 March 2026 returned a pass but carried over the rear tyre perishing advisories, leaving those items unresolved. With 73,671 miles accumulated across approximately nine years, this Qashqai has averaged around 8,186 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of its age. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent rather than erratic, with no extended gaps suggesting long periods off the road that might promote corrosion in hidden areas, brake caliper binding, or deterioration of rubber components through inactivity. Equally, the annual figure is high enough that wear-sensitive items such as suspension links, bushes, brake discs and pads, and exhaust mounting rubbers will have experienced normal working life usage. The mileage pattern therefore points to a car that has been in regular service, neither neglected through long storage nor excessively worked. Given the documented track rod end failure and recurring tyre concerns, the front suspension and steering assemblies should be the primary focus during any inspection. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front end over uneven surfaces, which would suggest worn anti-roll bar drop links, control arm bushes, or further deterioration in the steering rack area. Check for uneven or feathered front tyre wear on the nearside and offside, as the previously recorded edge wear combined with the failed ball joint points to potential geometry issues that may not have been fully corrected. The steering should feel precise without looseness, vibration, or pulling to one side under braking. Inspect both front and rear tyres closely for cracking in the sidewalls, tread depth below 3mm, and any bulges, particularly on the rear pair which have been flagged at two consecutive tests. The persistence of rear tyre perishing advisories across multiple examinations also warrants attention to the broader underbody condition. Although no corrosion advisories have been recorded, a Qashqai of this age and mileage is known to develop surface rust on suspension arms, subframe mounting points, and brake pipe runs, particularly around the rear axle. On the test drive, listen for any brake-related squeal or grinding that would indicate worn pads or scored discs, and verify that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline. Inspect the exhaust for blowing sounds or visible corrosion at joints and mounting rubbers. Finally, confirm that the track rod end replacement carried out after the 2025 failure was performed with a full geometry alignment, as incorrect installation or failure to set the tracking afterwards would accelerate front tyre wear and reintroduce the kind of edge wear already documented in the MOT record.