2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · RE16 GRX

The most recent MOT test on 29 September 2025 resulted in a pass, but it should be noted that a retest was required earlier the same day following a failure recorded the same date. The failure cited a fractured or broken offside rear coil spring, which is a major structural and suspension defect, alongside the advisory tyre issues and the minor ball joint dust cover deterioration that was carried forward to the pass. Looking at the broader five-year DVSA history, the pattern shows an accumulating volume of brake and tyre-related advisories that have been progressively noted since 2020 and 2021, with rear brake pads flagged as wearing thin in both 2022 and again in the recent test, and brake discs repeatedly flagged for wear and pitting across multiple inspections. While the vehicle has consistently passed its annual test, the density of advisories and the recent failure for a fractured coil spring suggest that suspension and braking components are entering a phase of accelerated wear that any prospective buyer should treat as a priority inspection area. With 61,651 miles recorded against an age of approximately ten years, this Qashqai is averaging around 6,165 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with typical UK usage for a vehicle of its class and age. There are no extended mileage gaps in the recorded history that would suggest prolonged standing, and the consistent year-on-year accumulation implies regular use, which is generally favourable for preserving drivetrain health, preventing brake caliper seizure, and avoiding time-related degradation of oils and rubbers. That said, the mileage places the vehicle firmly into mid-life territory where major consumables such as the timing chain, clutch, turbocharger (where fitted), and suspension bushes and springs will be approaching or have reached typical replacement thresholds, particularly given the recent coil spring fracture which often points to ageing spring steel rather than purely mileage-related fatigue. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the suspension system, specifically requesting a thorough inspection of both rear springs for any signs of corrosion, cracking, or sagging, as well as a check on the front offside ball joint for excessive play given the deteriorated dust cover noted at the recent test. On a test drive, listen carefully for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn bushes or failing ball joints, and pay attention to any vibration through the steering wheel which could indicate warped brake discs, especially as the front discs were noted as pitted or scored back in 2022. Brake feel should be assessed for firmness and consistent pedal travel, and the vehicle should be held on a slight incline with the handbrake to confirm the calipers are not seizing, an issue common on vehicles that have seen mixed urban and standing use. Inspect the tyres on all four corners for uneven wear patterns, particularly outer-edge wear on the nearside front which was noted as smooth, and check the sidewalls for perishing and cracking given the recurring advisory history in this area. Beyond the test-specific items, a ten-year-old Qashqai warrants a comprehensive age-based inspection regardless of its MOT record. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as units of this age frequently fail without warning and are a common cause of non-start issues. Brake fluid should be replaced every two years irrespective of mileage, and the test record showing no recent fluid service combined with the age of the vehicle means a fluid change should be factored into the purchase. Coolant and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) should also be checked for condition and age-appropriate replacement intervals. Examine the underside, wheel arches, and sills for any corrosion, particularly around the rear spring mounting areas given the recent fracture, and verify that the service book has been stamped at the correct intervals with evidence of cambelt or timing chain inspection. Finally, confirm that the tyre age codes on all four wheels are within five years of the current date, and ensure a spare or inflation kit is present and serviceable, as these are commonly overlooked on vehicles of this vintage.