2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · PL16 VFD

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Nissan Qashqai occurred on 2025-11-26, resulting in a passing outcome with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a consistent improvement or stability in roadworthiness. The most critical failures in the past two years—particularly the offside side repeater, windscreen washer functionality, and severe wear on the offside front suspension arm ball joint—highlight persistent mechanical degradation that suggests underlying structural or component fatigue. While the 2024 and earlier tests show advisories rather than outright failures, the progression from minor tyre wear close to the legal limit in 2021 to outright dangerous tyre defects in 2025 indicates a concerning trend in tyre and suspension management. The presence of multiple ball joint issues, including excessive play in the near-side front track rod end and slight play in the front anti-roll bar linkage, points to ongoing wear in the suspension system, which could escalate into binding or complete failure if left unaddressed. The recorded mileage of 74,156 miles for a vehicle aged ten years represents an average annual usage of approximately 7,416 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history suggests periods of potential underutilisation, as the vehicle passed MOTs with no defects in 2019 and 2020, followed by a rapid accumulation of mileage and subsequent failures. Lower mileage could imply prolonged idling or infrequent use, which can exacerbate issues such as brake pad wear, tyre sidewall cracking, and fluid degradation due to standing. Conversely, higher mileage over short periods may accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as seen with the repeated advisories on brake pad thinning and tyre wear close to the legal limit. The combination of these factors means the vehicle’s wear profile is influenced by both usage patterns and inherent mechanical ageing. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the recent MOT failures, particularly the offside front suspension arm ball joint and track rod end ball joint, which are critical components that, if neglected, could lead to steering instability or suspension collapse. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the suspension, especially when cornering or over bumps, as these may indicate loose or worn ball joints. Inspect the front suspension for uneven ride height or excessive play in the steering wheel, which could signal binding calipers or worn control arms. The dangerous tyre failure in 2025 underscores the need to verify tyre tread depth and sidewall condition—check for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns, as these can compromise handling and safety. Additionally, the thin brake pads and pitted discs from 2024 suggest that the braking system is approaching critical limits; test for brake shudder or pulsation during deceleration, which could indicate warped discs or uneven pad wear. Beyond immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid-based systems. Given the age and mileage, examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or dry rot, which can lead to sudden blowouts. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the engine bay, transmission area, and under the rear axle, as this may indicate failing seals or gaskets. The rear tyres’ sidewall cracking from 2022 and the recurring tyre wear advisories imply that the vehicle may have been driven on uneven surfaces or stored in conditions that accelerate tyre degradation. A practical next step is to verify the service history, especially for fluid servicing—oil, brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid should be replaced at manufacturer-recommended intervals, even if the vehicle hasn’t been driven extensively. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the electrical system, as the side repeater and windscreen washer failures suggest potential wiring or component wear that may recur. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, test the 12V battery for charge retention and inspect for corrosion on terminals and connections, as standing corrosion can lead to electrical failures.