2007 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · MP57 DAY

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 August 2025, was passed but recorded several advisories – front brake pads approaching the minimum thickness, both rear tyres close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear, and a minor oil leak that was not deemed excessive. Compared with the preceding three years, the pattern shows a gradual reduction in outright failures; earlier tests in 2022, 2023 and 2024 featured multiple major defects, whereas the latest result is a pass with only wear‑related advisories. This suggests the current owner has addressed the most serious safety items, but the vehicle still exhibits age‑related wear that will need attention before it can be considered reliably roadworthy for the long term. At 115,513 miles recorded for a 2007 model, the average annual mileage is roughly 6 000 miles, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope. The relatively modest mileage implies the car has not been subjected to high‑stress, high‑kilometre driving, but it also raises the possibility of extended periods of inactivity, especially given the recurring anti‑roll bar and suspension ball‑joint failures noted in earlier MOTs. Inactivity can accelerate corrosion of suspension bushings, brake components and the under‑carriage, while also allowing rubber components such as hoses, boots and tyre sidewalls to age and crack even with low mileage. A prospective buyer should give the brakes a thorough examination. Measure the remaining thickness of the front pads – the advisory indicates they are near the statutory minimum and will need replacement soon, and the front discs should be checked for scoring or glazing, especially since a rear disc was flagged as significantly worn in 2023. During a test drive listen for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, and feel for a soft or spongy pedal that could hint at the previously reported parking‑brake inefficiency. Inspect the rear tyres for uneven wear, sidewall cracking or perishing; the edge wear noted on both sides suggests the vehicle may have been running with incorrect camber or worn suspension components. Examine the anti‑roll bar linkages and ball joints for play – the 2024 failure of the rear anti‑roll bar and the excessive wear on the front anti‑roll bar ball joints are likely to cause clunking over bumps if not replaced. The CV boots on the off‑side front drive shaft were reported split in 2023; any grease leakage or clicking noises on acceleration could indicate imminent joint failure, so visual inspection of the boots and a test‑drive check for whine or vibration are essential. Finally, verify that all exterior lamps function correctly and that headlamp aim is within limits, as repeated failures of position lamps and headlamp alignment were recorded; mis‑aimed beams not only cause a MOT failure but can reduce night‑time visibility. Beyond the specific defects, the car’s age warrants a comprehensive age‑related inspection. Check the 12‑volt battery for cranking performance and inspect the terminals for corrosion, as a 19‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Examine all engine and transmission fluids – oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour and level, and consider a full fluid change if the service history does not show regular top‑ups, since fluids degrade over time even when the vehicle sits. Look for any signs of under‑carriage corrosion, especially around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, which can be exacerbated by prolonged standing. Verify that the service booklet contains stamps for timing‑chain inspection (if applicable), spark‑plug replacement and major service intervals; if gaps exist, budget for a thorough inspection of the timing chain tensioner, injector seals and the exhaust manifold for cracks. A careful visual check of the interior for water ingress, seat belt operation and the condition of the child‑seat mounting points will also help confirm that the vehicle has been maintained in a road‑worthy state.