2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · OY09 JCZ

The most recent MOT test on 6 August 2026 resulted in a pass, with two advisories recorded against the vehicle: corrosion of the front sub-frame noted as not seriously weakened, and slight damage or fraying to the offside front seat belt webbing. While the current pass is reassuring, the overall maintenance trend is clearly worsening rather than stable. The previous test on 25 July 2026 produced a failure driven by a seriously weakened nearside rear suspension arm, dangerously thin nearside rear outer brake pads, and pitted or scored rear brake discs. Earlier passes from 2022 through 2025 carry progressively lengthening advisory lists covering suspension arm corrosion, worn bushes, track rod end play, and front suspension ball joint wear. This pattern indicates a vehicle whose structural and suspension components are reaching the later stages of their service life, with corrosion and wear items accumulating year on year rather than being resolved. The recorded mileage of 116,437 miles over approximately 17 years equates to an annual average of around 6,850 miles, which is broadly typical for the age and class of vehicle. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT history that would suggest long periods of standing, and the mileage accumulation appears reasonably consistent from year to year. This level of use means the vehicle has experienced steady wear on mechanical consumables and suspension components without the additional risks associated with very low mileage and prolonged inactivity. That said, the combination of average mileage and a 17 year old chassis inevitably brings calendar related degradation such as corrosion, perishing of rubber components, and age related fluid deterioration, all of which are visible in the advisory history. Given the recurring advisories on the rear suspension arms and the failure for a seriously weakened nearside rear arm, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful inspection of the entire rear suspension structure, paying particular attention to corrosion on the trailing arms, beam axle, mounting points, and any associated bushes. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over bumps, watch for uneven rear tyre wear, and check for any instability or wandering under braking. The front sub-frame corrosion advisory should be physically inspected for advanced scaling or perforation, as sub-frames on vehicles of this age are known to deteriorate rapidly once surface corrosion becomes established. The track rod end and suspension ball joint play advisories from earlier tests warrant a steering check, looking for excessive free play at the front wheels, vagueness in the steering response, or knocking when turning at low speed, and a steering geometry check would be prudent to confirm there is no uneven front tyre wear. Beyond the documented advisories, age and mileage appropriate checks remain essential. The brake discs noted as pitted and scored should be inspected for lipping, run-out, and any evidence of brake shudder under heavy braking, and the condition of the brake lines and flexible hoses should be examined for corrosion or perishing. Tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking and perishing regardless of tread depth, as a 17 year old vehicle is at heightened risk of age related rubber degradation. The 12V battery is likely due for replacement given the vehicle age, and all fluids including engine coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual gearbox oil should be considered for renewal on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage. The damaged seat belt webbing advisory should be addressed promptly for safety compliance, and a thorough inspection underneath the vehicle on a ramp is strongly recommended to assess the true extent of the corrosion issues flagged across multiple MOT tests.