2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · PL67 KXZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 28 May 2026 resulted in a pass, with the only entry being an advisory noting a child seat was fitted preventing full inspection of the adult belt. This is a non-mechanical observation and carries no roadworthiness concern. Evaluating the broader test history, the maintenance trend has been broadly stable but not without concern. The vehicle passed cleanly in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2024, but the 2023 test recorded multiple advisories relating to rear brake discs, rear brake pads, and a front lower suspension arm bush, and a retest in May 2025 was failed on dangerous grounds for both front tyres having tread depth below the legal 1.6mm minimum. That dangerous failure represents a serious safety non-compliance and suggests that tyre maintenance, at least, had lapsed prior to that test. The subsequent pass a day later indicates remedial action was taken, and the clean 2026 pass suggests the vehicle has since been brought back to a satisfactory standard, though buyers should remain alert to the underlying wear pattern that produced the dangerous defects. With 124,002 miles recorded over nine years, this Qashqai is covering approximately 13,778 miles per year, which is notably above the national average and confirms the vehicle has been used as a high-mileage daily runner rather than a lightly used or occasional car. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record, and mileage appears to have accumulated steadily. Mechanically, this level of use will accelerate wear on all consumables and major drivetrain components. Expect closer attention to be required on the clutch, turbocharger (if applicable), timing chain or belt service intervals, dual-mass flywheel condition, and gearbox oil, alongside more frequent renewal of brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid if fitted. The high annual mileage also means items such as wheel bearings, drop links, and anti-roll bar bushes will likely be nearer the end of their service life than on a lower-mileage equivalent. Given the documented defects, the rear brake system warrants particular scrutiny. The 2023 advisories recorded worn and pitted rear discs alongside thinning rear pads, and although these did not immediately progress to failure, pitted rear discs typically indicate infrequent rear brake usage combined with corrosion, which can lead to judder, uneven pad wear, and eventual disc replacement. On a test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding from the rear, particularly when reversing or applying light braking, and feel for pulsation through the brake pedal. Inspect the rear discs visually for lipping, blueing, or deep scoring, and check that the caliper slide pins move freely, as binding rear calipers are common on Qashqais of this age and mileage. The front suspension arm bush advisory should also be revisited; on a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, and check for uneven front tyre wear which would confirm excessive movement in the bush. Beyond the recorded items, a prospective buyer should carry out several physical checks appropriate to a high-mileage, nine-year-old vehicle. Inspect all four tyres, including the spare if present, for uneven shoulder wear, sidewall perishing, and cracking from age, even where tread depth appears adequate. Examine the exhaust system, particularly the rear silencer and under-floor sections, for corrosion and blowing joints, as salt exposure on a high-mileage car accelerates exhaust decay. Verify the 12V battery condition, as batteries typically require replacement every five to six years and a failing unit produces starting issues and electronic glitches. Check all fluid levels and colours, paying particular attention to brake fluid (which absorbs moisture over time and should be renewed regardless of mileage every two to three years), coolant condition, and power steering fluid if applicable. Finally, confirm the service book stamps or digital service records align with the high mileage, ensuring cambelt or timing chain, spark plugs, and oil changes have been performed at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, and consider a compression test or diagnostic scan to verify engine and emissions system health before purchase.