2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.3L Petrol · OV68 WEX

The latest MOT test for this 2018 Nissan Qashqai on 2026-01-05 resulted in a failure, with two critical defects classified as "Dangerous" related to both front and rear brake pads being below the legal minimum thickness of 1.5 mm. This marks a significant deviation from the previous three MOTs, which were all passed without any recorded defects, indicating a concerning deterioration in brake system integrity. The presence of advisories—such as the front brake discs being worn, pitted, or scored but not seriously weakened—further suggests that the braking components have been under significant stress over time, potentially due to either excessive usage or inadequate maintenance. The failure highlights a failure to address prior wear advisories, which could have led to further degradation or even safety risks if the vehicle had been driven at higher speeds or under demanding conditions. The recorded mileage of 84,170 miles for an eight-year-old Qashqai represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,521 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. While this does not necessarily indicate excessive wear beyond normal expectations, the consistent mileage accumulation over eight years suggests moderate to heavy usage, particularly if there were no long periods of inactivity. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily correlate with mechanical stress—some owners maintain vehicles with steady, moderate use, while others may drive less frequently but still experience wear from standing or seasonal conditions. The most critical aspect here is the brake system’s exposure to consistent friction, which accelerates pad and disc wear, especially when combined with potential thermal cycling from frequent braking. Given the recent MOT failure, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, as the current condition of the brake pads and discs is critical for roadworthiness and safety. The buyer should visually inspect the brake pads for any remaining thickness, checking that they meet or exceed the 1.5 mm legal minimum, and confirm that the discs are free from excessive warping, scoring, or glazing that could impair braking performance. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding, squeaking, or pulsations from the brakes, which may indicate worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Additionally, check for any brake fluid leaks around the master cylinder or caliper seals, as low fluid levels or contamination can exacerbate brake system failure. Immediate replacement of the brake pads and discs is strongly advised, with the discs potentially requiring resurfacing or replacement if they are severely pitted or scored. Beyond the immediate brake concerns, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s suspension, exhaust system, and general roadworthiness to mitigate any residual risks. Given the previous advisories related to tyre wear, particularly the front tyres being worn close to the legal limit, inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for signs of dry rot, cracking, or separation, which can compromise tyre integrity at higher speeds. Check for uneven wear patterns that may indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressures, as these can lead to further tyre degradation and handling problems. For the exhaust system, visually inspect for corrosion, leaks, or damage to the catalytic converter and muffler, as these can affect emissions performance and structural integrity. Finally, verify that all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, engine oil, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, consider scheduling a service to replace fluids that have exceeded their recommended service intervals, particularly if the last service was more than two years ago.