2010 Nissan Qashqai 2.0L Petrol · ML60 VLF

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Nissan Qashqai was passed on 2026-01-22, but this follows a pattern of recurring issues that have not been fully resolved. While there are no outright failures in this latest assessment, the presence of persistent advisories—particularly the offside front wheel bearing noise, steering rack play, and corroded rear suspension arm—suggests a maintenance trend that has not been fully addressed. The vehicle’s history shows both passing and failing MOTs, with dangerous brake lining failures in 2025 and significant suspension and tyre wear issues dating back to 2024. This inconsistency indicates either inconsistent servicing or underlying mechanical wear that requires careful attention before purchase. The recorded mileage of 114,844 miles for a 16-year-old vehicle represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,178 miles per year, which is typical for its age. However, the absence of a clear service history or significant mileage gaps suggests either infrequent use or periods of prolonged standing, which can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. Standing vehicles are particularly prone to issues such as brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, and fluid degradation in hydraulic systems, as these can lead to premature failure if not addressed. The combination of moderate mileage and the vehicle’s age means that wear-related defects are likely to be more pronounced than in lower-mileage examples, necessitating a thorough inspection of high-wear areas. Given the recurring advisories and past failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the front wheel bearings, steering rack, and suspension components, as these have been flagged multiple times. Listen for unusual noises from the front wheels during acceleration and braking, as a noisy bearing may indicate impending failure, potentially leading to wheel separation or steering instability. Check for uneven tyre wear, particularly on the offside front tyres, which have been noted near the legal limit; this could signal alignment or suspension issues. Inspect the front brake system for corrosion on discs and pads, and test brake pedal travel for firmness—standing corrosion can cause spongy or uneven braking. Additionally, examine the rear suspension arm for further corrosion or cracks, as the previous MOT noted corrosion without serious structural weakness, which could worsen with continued use. For fluid systems, the buyer should verify the condition of the brake fluid, which may have degraded over time due to the vehicle’s age. Check for leaks around the brake master cylinder, calipers, and wheel cylinders, as fluid loss can lead to reduced braking performance. The steering rack and suspension bushes should be inspected for stiffness or excessive play, as the advisories suggest ongoing wear. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider a comprehensive service check, including the timing belt (if applicable), spark plugs, and engine oil condition, as these components may require replacement or replacement intervals. If the buyer is concerned about the registration plate lamps or position lamps, these are straightforward to replace and should not be a major concern unless they are visibly damaged or the wiring is compromised. Overall, while the vehicle has passed the latest MOT, the history of unresolved issues demands thorough due diligence to avoid costly repairs.