2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SA62 XAX

The 2012 Nissan Qashqai most recently completed an MOT test on 23 July 2026 with a pass outcome, although the examination did flag a Minor defect regarding an inoperative nearside registration plate lamp together with three advisories concerning a bonnet catch requiring attention, an altered internal headlight adjuster, and slight play at both front track rod end ball joints. While the latest pass is encouraging, the broader DVSA record reveals a pattern of recurring front suspension and braking concerns that any prospective purchaser should not overlook. The vehicle failed an MOT on 10 July 2025 due to excessively worn suspension arm ball joints on both front sides, alongside a split nearside inner CV joint boot that could no longer prevent ingress of dirt, with an additional advisory noting wear to a rear pin or bush. A prior failure on 2 August 2023 cited dangerous conditions at both front tyres with exposed ply or cords and dangerously thin front brake pads, plus worn front brake discs. Oil leaks were also flagged at the sump plug area in both 2024 and 2025. Taken in sequence, the pattern suggests that front suspension components, brake hardware, and engine sealing have been the principal areas of attention, and although the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the repeated advisories imply that further deterioration in these areas is plausible before the next test. With 116,802 recorded miles over approximately fourteen years, the Qashqai has covered a broadly average annual mileage of around 8,343 miles per year. This is consistent with typical mixed driving conditions and does not suggest either prolonged periods of standing or exceptionally heavy use that would dramatically accelerate wear. That said, mileage alone is an imperfect indicator of mechanical condition, and a fourteen year old vehicle at this odometer reading should still be evaluated with the expectation that major consumables and certain wear items may now be approaching or past their intended service life. The relatively even annual usage implied by the mileage trajectory would generally support more consistent component wear rather than the severe localised degradation often seen on vehicles used predominantly for stop-start urban journeys. When inspecting this Qashqai, particular attention should be paid to the front suspension and steering geometry given the documented history. The advisories on both front track rod end ball joints showing slight play, together with last year's failure for excessively worn lower suspension arm ball joints and a worn rear lower arm bush, indicate that the front end has been working through its consumable components. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, and feel for vagueness, wandering, or imprecise steering response that would suggest further deterioration of the track rod ends or wishbone joints. The nearside front inner drive shaft CV boot split recorded in 2025 is a critical item; if the repair was not carried out promptly or thoroughly, watch for clicking or knocking noises during full-lock low speed manoeuvres and for grease being flung around the inside of the adjacent wheel, which would indicate joint contamination and impending failure. The braking system also warrants careful physical examination, particularly at the front. The 2023 test recorded dangerously thin front brake pads and worn front brake discs, and while it must be assumed that replacement work followed, the discs themselves may have been machined or skimmed at that time rather than renewed, which on a vehicle of this age and mileage often leads to recurring disc wear. On inspection, feel through the brake pedal for any shudder or vibration under firm application, which suggests disc runout or warping, and listen for any scraping or grinding indicative of pad material that has worn down close to the backing plate. The advisory for a corroded offside rear brake pipe recorded in 2023 is also worth noting, as corrosion of underbody brake lines can progress unseen and represents a significant safety concern. Beyond these specific items, an inspection should also confirm the integrity of the previously identified bonnet catch, check all exterior lamps including the registration plate illumination, and examine the underside for any fresh oil seepage from the sump or engine seals. Given the vehicle's age, it would also be prudent to verify the condition of the twelve volt battery, inspect tyres for age related sidewall cracking or perishing even if tread depth is adequate, and confirm that major service items such as brake fluid, coolant, and automatic or manual transmission fluid have been changed in line with calendar based recommendations rather than purely on mileage.