2014 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · PL14 MFF

The most recent MOT inspection on 1 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history indicates a concerning trend of recurring suspension and tyre-related issues. While the vehicle passed its latest test, the history shows a pattern of progressive deterioration rather than a stable maintenance regime. Specifically, the suspension arm bushes and ball joint dust covers have been flagged as defective or worn for several consecutive years, suggesting that while individual faults are being addressed to meet minimum legal standards, the underlying wear in the front suspension system is not being comprehensively rectified. This trend of addressing symptoms rather than performing preventative maintenance is a point of caution for any prospective buyer. With a recorded mileage of 96,257 over approximately twelve years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 8,000 miles per year. This usage profile is considered typical for a domestic vehicle of this age and suggests it has not been subjected to extreme high-mileage motorway cruising, nor has it been left to stand for excessively long periods. However, the moderate mileage does not exempt the vehicle from age-related degradation. The mechanical wear seen in the suspension components and the presence of tyre perishing are consistent with a vehicle that is used regularly but perhaps lacks a rigorous preventative maintenance schedule, which is common for vehicles in this mileage bracket. A primary area of concern for a test drive is the front suspension assembly. The repeated advisories regarding worn front suspension arm bushes and deteriorated ball joint dust covers mean you should listen intently for knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Such defects can lead to imprecise steering, uneven tyre wear, and eventually, more costly failures of the suspension arms themselves. Furthermore, the history of a fractured rear coil spring and previous ABS warning lamp faults suggests that the chassis and electronic braking systems have faced significant stress. You must verify that the ABS warning light remains extinguished on the dashboard and that the vehicle does not exhibit any brake pedal pulsation or shuddering, which could indicate worn discs or sticking calipers. Regarding the tyres and consumables, the MOT history frequently notes cracking, perishing, or uneven wear on the tyres. During your inspection, examine the sidewalls of all tyres for any signs of age-related cracking or bulging, which can occur even if tread depth remains sufficient. The history of inner edge wear on the front tyres suggests potential wheel alignment issues, likely stemming from the aforementioned worn suspension bushes. You should also check the engine bay for signs of the oil leak noted in previous years to ensure it has not progressed to a level that affects engine performance or cleanliness. Finally, given the age and intermittent nature of the repairs, verify the service history to ensure that fluids and essential components have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage.