2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · RO16 ETF

The MOT history for this 2016 Nissan Qashqai presents a broadly clean roadworthiness picture across eight tests spanning 2020 to 2026, with a single recorded failure in May 2024 for a nearside front headlamp aim that was set too low. That defect, classified as a Prescribed Item, is an easily rectified adjustment issue rather than a structural or wear-related concern, and the vehicle passed a retest on the same date with no defects recorded. Following that 2024 retest, three further tests in 2025, 2026, and the most recent on 20 May 2026 have all returned clean results with no advisories, suggesting that the underlying roadworthiness has remained stable over the last two years. The absence of recurring advisories for components such as suspension bushes, brake components, exhaust system, or corrosion is notable for a vehicle approaching ten years of age. Against a ten-year age span, the recorded mileage of 51,891 miles equates to roughly 5,189 miles per year, which is low for the vehicle's class and age. MOT tests have been conducted annually without significant gaps, indicating the car has remained in active use rather than being laid up for extended periods, although the low annual mileage does suggest a high proportion of short journeys or intermittent use. Mechanically, this usage profile typically results in less wear on high-mileage components such as the clutch, engine internals, and major brake assemblies, but can accelerate corrosion on undersealed areas, brake discs (due to limited drying heat cycles), and may place greater strain on the 12V battery from repeated short starts. The fact that none of these wear items have appeared as advisories during testing is consistent with the lighter use pattern observed. Given the single headlamp aim failure, a prospective buyer should verify the operation and alignment of both front headlamps, particularly ensuring the nearside unit is correctly set and that the adjustment mechanism is not worn or seized, as repeated misalignment can indicate deteriorated mountings. The test drive should focus on any pulling to one side under braking or acceleration, which can sometimes be related to uneven headlamp levelling faults or suspension geometry. On the move, listen for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, particularly from the lower control arms and anti-roll bar linkages, which are known wear items on Qashqais of this generation and would be expected to surface as mileage accumulates further. Despite the clean advisory record, the buyer should still inspect the underside of the vehicle on a ramp or with the wheels turned for full lock access, paying particular attention to the rear suspension springs and front subframe mounting areas for any surface corrosion, as MOT testing does not require the vehicle to be lifted for a comprehensive underbody inspection. Brake pedal feel should be checked for any sponginess or excessive travel, and the handbrake should hold firmly on an incline to confirm the rear caliper mechanisms are functioning correctly. Finally, verify that all dashboard warning lamps extinguish promptly after engine start, as the Qashqai's electronic systems, including the parking sensors and tyre pressure monitoring, should be confirmed fully operational before purchase.