2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · PL16 FYR

The latest MOT test for the 2016 Nissan Qashqai on 2026-04-29 resulted in a passing grade, though it included an advisory regarding the near-side front tyre’s wear near the legal limit and edge wear, which indicates ongoing tyre usage patterns that may have contributed to this condition. Reviewing the full MOT history reveals a mixed maintenance trend, with a notable failure in 2024-03-21 due to a dangerous rear tyre defect—a bulge from structural separation or partial failure—which would have rendered the vehicle unsafe for road use. Subsequent tests show advisories persisting on rear tyre damage and wear, particularly on the near-side and offside rear tyres, suggesting a recurring issue likely linked to driving conditions, load distribution, or tyre alignment. While earlier MOTs from 2022 onwards were clean apart from minor wear advisories, the 2024 failure underscores a critical need for immediate attention to tyre integrity, particularly given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 68,396 miles for a 10-year-old Qashqai represents an average annual usage of approximately 6,840 miles, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this vehicle class. This rate does not suggest excessive wear from high mileage alone, but it does imply consistent use over the past decade, which may have accelerated wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps could also indicate prolonged periods of inactivity, potentially leading to secondary issues such as standing corrosion on brake components, battery degradation from disuse, or fluid degradation from lack of circulation. However, the primary concern remains the tyre defects, which are more pronounced than one might expect from a vehicle of this age and mileage range, warranting further investigation into the cause—whether it stems from aggressive driving, improper load distribution, or underlying structural tyre damage. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent priority is addressing the rear tyre defects, particularly the dangerous bulge noted in 2024, which requires immediate replacement to prevent catastrophic failure. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise or vibrations, and check for uneven wear patterns or excessive heat buildup around the rear tyres. The near-side front tyre advisory suggests monitoring its tread depth closely, as edge wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues that may worsen with further use. Additionally, inspect the offside rear tyre for further cracking or perishing, as this may signal underlying tyre degradation that could compromise safety. Beyond tyres, verify the brake system for signs of binding calipers, corrosion on discs, or uneven braking performance, which could be exacerbated by the thin pad advisories from previous MOTs. In terms of broader vehicle health, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension for signs of worn suspension bushes, coil spring deterioration, or rusted control arm mounts, as these can contribute to the tyre wear patterns observed. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the engine bay, transmission, and brake systems, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. Inspect the 12V battery for corrosion on terminals and overall health, as a weak battery in a stationary vehicle can accelerate internal corrosion. Finally, verify that the vehicle has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, particularly focusing on fluid changes—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid—due to their calendar-based degradation, even with moderate mileage. A service history check or a professional inspection would provide further reassurance on the vehicle’s maintenance record.