2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · RO60 LZX

The most recent MOT inspection on 1 September 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history shows a concerning trend of recurring mechanical degradation. While the 2024 test was a clean pass, the preceding year saw a dangerous failure due to critically worn brake pads and significant suspension component wear. The current advisories for an oil leak, a corroded nearside front coil spring, and worn rear anti-roll bar bushes suggest that while the vehicle is technically roadworthy, it is entering a phase of increased maintenance requirements. The pattern of failures and advisories regarding suspension bushes and braking components indicates that the vehicle has been driven with components nearing the end of their service life, rather than being proactively maintained. With approximately 95,476 miles recorded over 16 years, this Nissan Qashqai has averaged roughly 5,967 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, which typically suggests lighter usage or perhaps extended periods of being stationary. While low mileage can imply less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often introduces specific risks related to age-related degradation. In vehicles with low annual mileage, rubber components such as suspension bushes, tyre sidewalls, and engine seals are more prone to perishing and cracking due to environmental exposure and lack of regular movement, rather than mechanical friction. This is reflected in the MOT history, which frequently notes tyre cracking and perishing alongside suspension wear. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the auditory and tactile feedback from the chassis. The advisory regarding the corroded nearside front coil spring is a priority; listen for any metallic clunks or knocks when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, as a snapped spring can lead to sudden loss of control. The worn rear anti-roll bar bushes may cause a rhythmic knocking or rattling sound from the rear of the vehicle during cornering or on rough roads. Furthermore, the recorded oil leak requires immediate investigation. Check the engine bay and the ground beneath the vehicle for fresh fluid deposits; a slow leak can lead to oil starvation if not monitored, and it may indicate failing gaskets or seals that will require costly repairs. Given the low annual mileage and the age of the vehicle, you should conduct a thorough physical inspection of all consumables. Examine the tyre sidewalls closely for any signs of deep cracking or perishing, even if the tread depth appears sufficient, as older rubber loses its grip and structural integrity. Check the brake discs for heavy corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the vehicle has sat idle for periods, potentially leading to binding calipers or reduced braking efficiency. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, such as engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, have been performed on a calendar basis rather than just by mileage, as chemical degradation occurs over time regardless of how much the vehicle is driven.