2017 Infiniti Q30 1.5L Diesel · RO17 WVC

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-10-13, but the maintenance trend is worsening. The tester flagged corrosion on the offside front brake pipe, which is a safety-critical component, and noted nearside steering rack inner joint play — both indicative of unresolved mechanical wear or neglect. These are not minor advisories; they suggest ongoing deterioration in key systems, and the fact that both issues appeared in the same test cycle implies they may have been developing over time rather than being isolated incidents. Mileage progression is consistent with the vehicle’s age, averaging around 7,400 miles annually, which is typical for a 2017 model. The jump from 25,975 miles in 2021 to 55,080 miles in 2024 — roughly 29,000 miles over three years — reflects normal usage, with no evidence of sudden mileage spikes or suspicious gaps. The 2025 test at 66,664 miles confirms the car has been driven regularly, but the wear patterns on tyres and brakes suggest that maintenance has not kept pace with usage, particularly in the last two years. Buyers should inspect the front brake system in detail, especially the offside pipe for corrosion and the steering rack for play, as these are structural and safety-critical. The brake pipe corrosion may indicate poor fluid maintenance or exposure to road salt, which can lead to failure if ignored. The steering rack issue, if left unaddressed, can compromise handling and increase accident risk. Also examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for wear, as the steering rack fault may be linked to suspension misalignment or worn mounts. Tyre condition should be rechecked — the 2022 MOT noted cracking on three tyres, which, if not replaced, could lead to premature failure or blowouts. The vehicle’s history shows no major structural rust or emissions failures, which is reassuring, but the recurring brake and steering issues, combined with the 2022 tyre wear, indicate that the previous owner may have deferred maintenance on high-wear components. A pre-purchase inspection should focus on the front suspension, brake lines, and steering rack, with particular attention to any signs of fluid leaks or binding in the calipers. The car is mechanically sound for now, but the trend suggests it requires immediate attention to prevent future breakdowns or safety hazards.