2012 Nissan Qashqai 2.0L Petrol · RO12 CZX

The most recent MOT on 10 February 2026 was passed, with the only comment being a slight damage or cracking on the nearside rear tyre. Over the past six years the Qashqai has shown a pattern of recurring tyre advisories and progressive brake‑disc wear, punctuated by a single failure in early 2021 when a deep cut on the nearside front tyre and slight play in the anti‑roll bar linkage were flagged. Since that failure the vehicle has consistently passed, albeit with ongoing advisories for tyre condition and brake‑disc surface wear, indicating that the owner has been addressing the major safety issues but that wear items are accumulating as the car ages. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable – the most serious defects have been rectified, yet the vehicle is now entering a phase where age‑related wear will become more pronounced. At 42,557 miles recorded for a 2012 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 3,000 mi per year, which is considerably below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity or very gentle use, both of which can be benign for mechanical wear but can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and fluid degradation. The modest mileage means that major drivetrain components such as the engine, transmission and CV joints are likely to have endured relatively little wear, but the low use also raises the risk of tyre sidewall cracking, tyre tread hardening and corrosion on metal parts that have been standing for extended periods. When you inspect the car, give the tyres the most thorough examination. Check the tread depth on all four wheels, look for any sidewall cracks, bulges or dry rot, and verify the DOT code to confirm that the tyres are not older than six years, as age alone can render them unsafe even if the tread appears adequate. Pay particular attention to the nearside rear tyre, which has been flagged repeatedly, and the nearside front tyre, which previously suffered a deep cut – any uneven wear, vibration at highway speeds or a thumping noise on cornering could indicate underlying suspension or wheel‑alignment issues. While on the road, listen for clunks when passing over bumps, especially from the front anti‑roll bar linkage, and feel for any looseness in the steering that might betray worn ball‑joint play. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also examine the condition of the brake discs and pads. The MOT records show pitting and scoring on both front and rear discs; measure the remaining thickness and look for deep grooves that could cause brake shudder or reduced stopping performance. Check the pads for wear and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Inspect the battery for signs of sulphation or low voltage, and consider a load test before purchase. Finally, verify that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within their recommended service intervals – fluids can deteriorate even when the car sits, leading to corrosion or reduced effectiveness. A visual check for any rust on the chassis, exhaust, and suspension components, as well as a review of the service book for regular oil changes and timing‑chain inspections, will give you confidence that the Qashqai’s mechanical health is in line with its low‑mileage, long‑standing usage profile.