2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · OV61 YPR

This Qashqai presents a notably sparse official record, with the most recent test on 26 November 2025 returning a clean pass alongside an equally unblemished pass on 31 January 2025. The absence of any recorded advisories across the documented tests suggests the vehicle has, on paper at least, avoided the rust, component wear, and minor deterioration typically flagged on a 14-year-old crossover. However, the two failures recorded on 29 January 2025 and 31 January 2024 carry a caveat worth highlighting: both are listed with no defects recorded, which is unusual and may indicate retests after minor repairs were completed off-site prior to the test outcome being formally logged, or administrative data entry that omitted the specific reasons for failure. A prospective buyer should therefore obtain and scrutinise the actual failure documentation from DVSA, as the blank failure entries are not representative of a typical failure pattern and the underlying mechanical issues behind those two stops remain undisclosed in this dataset. With 112,752 miles accumulated over roughly 14 years, the vehicle is averaging around 8,054 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the expected range for a car of this age and type. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record that would suggest the vehicle was laid up for extended periods, nor are there any abrupt mileage jumps between tests that might indicate clocking or inconsistent usage. This steady accumulation implies regular rather than sporadic use, which generally benefits mechanical longevity by keeping seals lubricated, preventing moisture accumulation in the oil and exhaust systems, and reducing the risk of seized brakes and corroded underbody components. Mechanically, the mileage places this Qashqai in the territory where suspension consumables, engine oil leaks, and clutch wear become more likely points of concern, even though none of these have yet been formally flagged. Given the clean advisory record, a physical inspection should focus on the areas most prone to wear on a high-mileage Nissan crossover of this generation, particularly the rear suspension components, anti-roll bar bushes, and the front lower control arm bushings, which are known to deteriorate on Qashqais of this age. During a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as this typically indicates worn bushes or top mounts, and pay close attention to any vagueness or knocking through the steering, which can point to worn drop links or track rod ends. The clutch should be evaluated under load on a hill, watching for slipping, juddering, or a high biting point, while the gearbox should be checked for smooth selection across all gears, including reverse. Brake feel should be firm and consistent, with no pulling to either side under braking, which would suggest a binding caliper or unevenly worn pads and discs. Finally, the bodywork and underfloor structure warrant close visual inspection regardless of the clean MOT record, as corrosion advisories on Nissan Qashqais of this vintage commonly appear on the rear axle, subframe mounting points, and brake pipes, even when not yet severe enough to fail. Lift the bonnet and check around the engine for signs of oil seepage from the rocker cover gasket and the cam chain area, as these engines can develop minor leaks that worsen over time. Inspect the exhaust system for rust, particularly at the joints and mounting rubber, and ensure the catalytic converter is secure as these are expensive replacements. Any sign of fluid staining on the underbody, damp patches under the vehicle after standing, or a strong smell of burning oil on the test drive should be treated seriously and investigated further before committing to purchase, as the absence of recorded advisories only confirms the car was roadworthy on the day of test, not that it is free from developing wear.