2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · MA16 AAX

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-21 resulted in a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has now passed all roadworthiness requirements without any defects. However, the prior MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant cautious consideration. The vehicle failed in 2025-01-28 with two dangerous failures related to tyre tread depth and a major defect in the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, which is a critical component for steering and handling stability. While the 2024-02-02 test showed advisories—an oil leak and nearside rear tyre perishing—these were not severe enough to affect roadworthiness, suggesting that while maintenance may have been deferred, the underlying wear issues have not yet progressed to critical levels. This suggests a trend of deferred maintenance rather than outright neglect, with the suspension ball joint being the most pressing concern. The recorded mileage of 72,971 miles for a 10-year-old Qashqai aligns with a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,297 miles per year, which is typical for its age and likely reflects a combination of regular driving and periods of storage. Lower mileage could indicate lighter use, potentially leading to issues such as tyre perishing from age, standing corrosion on brake components or suspension linkages, or battery degradation due to prolonged inactivity. Conversely, higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and drivetrain seals, but this vehicle’s mileage does not suggest excessive driving. The absence of significant mileage spikes over the past year suggests consistent usage, but the presence of the oil leak and tyre perishing advisories may indicate that the vehicle has been driven intermittently, allowing wear to accumulate without timely servicing. Given the recent MOT pass and the recurring advisories, the most critical inspection for the buyer should focus on the front suspension ball joint, which failed in 2025. This component is essential for steering accuracy and stability, and its wear can lead to uneven tyre wear, steering play, or even loss of control if ignored. On a test drive, listen for clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension when driving over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate suspension misalignment. The oil leak advisory suggests that the engine oil retention system may be compromised, potentially leading to increased engine wear if not addressed. Inspect the oil dipstick for contamination or loss of oil level, and consider a professional oil change to assess for metal particles or sludge buildup. Additionally, the tyre perishing advisories indicate that the rear tyres may be nearing the end of their serviceable life, even if they still meet the minimum tread depth. Replace these tyres promptly to avoid slipping hazards, especially in wet conditions. For broader physical checks, examine the vehicle for signs of standing corrosion, particularly on the lower sills, wheel arches, and underbody components, which can compromise structural integrity over time. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, which can occur if the vehicle has been stored for long periods without use. Inspect the 12V battery and associated wiring for signs of corrosion or wear, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery failure. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories present, it is advisable to verify that all service book stamps have been recorded, particularly for the suspension and tyre maintenance intervals. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the exhaust emissions system, as the Qashqai’s catalytic converter and oxygen sensors may have degraded over time, especially if the vehicle has been driven with older fuel or without regular servicing. Ensure that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up and free of contaminants, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on seals and bearings.