2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · RO18 THK

The most recent MOT on 27 August 2026 was passed, with the only note being that vital components underneath the vehicle could not be fully inspected because of protective covers. Over the preceding seven years the pattern shows a mix of clean passes and a single failure in September 2023 when the front brake pads were recorded as dangerously thin. That failure appears to have been remedied, as the 2024 and later tests have all passed, though the same brake‑pad wear advisories recur each year and the underside inspection remains limited. Overall the maintenance trend is stabilising after the 2023 issue, but the persistent brake‑pad wear and the inability to inspect the under‑carriage suggest that ongoing attention will be required. At 76 076 miles the Qashqai has logged roughly 9 500 miles per annum since its 2018 registration, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage band. There are no obvious periods of accelerated mileage that would point to severe component fatigue, nor are there large gaps that might indicate prolonged storage. The moderate annual run‑off means consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension elements will have experienced normal wear, but age‑related degradation – especially to rubber and fluid seals – will be a factor. A prospective buyer should give the braking system the highest priority. Verify that the front pads have been replaced since the 2023 failure and inspect the disc surfaces for scoring, glazing or excessive rust, which can cause brake shudder or reduced stopping power. During a test drive listen for any high‑pitched squeal or low‑frequency growl when applying the brakes, feel for pedal sponginess, and check that the vehicle pulls straight when braking. Also examine the rear pads for remaining thickness; uneven wear may indicate caliper sticking or mis‑adjusted pistons, which could lead to premature replacement. Because the MOT examiner could not lift the protective covers, arrange for a thorough under‑carriage check by a qualified mechanic. Look for corrosion on the exhaust system, subframe and suspension mounting points, and inspect the condition of the lower control‑arm bushings, coil springs and anti‑roll bar links for any cracking or excessive play that would manifest as clunks over bumps. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for age‑related cracking – tyres older than six years are prone to dry rot even if tread depth is acceptable – and tread depth should be measured on all four wheels. Given the vehicle’s eight‑year age, have the battery load‑tested, confirm that the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant have been changed at the recommended intervals, and request any recent service stamps that confirm these time‑based items have been addressed. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection covering these points will give a clear picture of any imminent maintenance and the overall roadworthiness of the Qashqai.