2017 Nissan X-Trail 1.6L Diesel · RE67 FSF

A clear pattern of front-end steering and braking wear is developing on this 2017 Nissan X-Trail, evidenced by the August 2026 test passing but flagging multiple advisories including thin front brake pads, slight play in the nearside front outer track rod end ball joint, and both front tyres reaching the legal tread limit with edge wear. The same nearside front track rod end play was first noted in August 2025, indicating the joint has not been addressed and is a progressive wear item that will likely require replacement before the next test. Prior tests from 2024 and 2023 flagged only rear tyre perishing and cracking, while the August 2022 test recorded no defects at all, confirming the recent advisories represent an emerging wear pattern rather than long-standing neglect. The near absence of any structural, corrosion, or exhaust advisories across the entire MOT history is a positive indicator for a nine-year-old vehicle, suggesting the bodyshell and undercarriage remain sound. At 80,369 miles over nine years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 8,930 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and consistent with regular mixed-use driving rather than long-term storage or unusually high mileage accumulation. The MOT testing history shows annual or near-annual submissions since 2022 with no significant gaps, confirming the vehicle has been in consistent use and therefore mechanical components have been operating rather than static. This level of usage is sufficient to keep lubricants circulating, tyres wearing evenly across rotations, and suspension components functioning through their normal range of motion, which generally benefits longevity compared to a low-mileage garage queen that suffers from dried seals and perished rubber. However, the mileage is now entering a bracket where suspension bushings, brake calipers, and drivetrain mounts typically begin to show wear, which aligns with the advisories now surfacing at the front axle. A prospective buyer should focus the pre-purchase inspection on the front suspension and steering geometry, as the persistent track rod end play is the most concrete mechanical concern flagged. On a test drive, listen for clonks from the nearside front wheel when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for vagueness or a wandering sensation through the steering wheel, particularly at motorway speeds, which would indicate the joint has worn beyond the slight play threshold. Inspect both front tyres for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, as this often points to incorrect tracking following worn steering components, and verify the brake pedal feel is firm without judder under heavy application, as the thin front pads combined with their age may also be accompanied by worn discs requiring simultaneous replacement. Check that the nearside rear tyre has been repaired properly following the recorded nail penetration, examining the sidewall for any bulging or slow pressure loss, and inspect the rear tyres for continued cracking consistent with the 2023 and 2024 advisories, as tyre rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of remaining tread depth. Finally, although no advisories have yet appeared for the rear brakes, coil springs, or exhaust system, these items warrant a manual inspection at the current mileage. With the front brake pads now thin, expect rear pads and discs to be approaching half worn, and verify the handbrake holds firmly on an incline as caliper slide pins and rear drum or electronic mechanisms commonly seize on X-Trails of this vintage. Listen for any clonking over undulating road surfaces, which would suggest worn anti-roll bar drop links or rear trailing arm bushes, and inspect the underside for any early surface corrosion around the rear subframe mounting points, even though none has yet been flagged. A fluid inspection including brake fluid condition, coolant strength, and a gearbox oil check on a dipstick where fitted would also be prudent given the cumulative mileage, allowing the buyer to budget for upcoming front-end remedial work with full confidence in the otherwise clean structural record.