2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SC10 VCK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 24 August 2026, resulted in a failure. The test highlighted dangerous wear on the off‑side front track‑rod end ball joint, tyre tread depths that are close to the legal minimum on both front tyres, and advisory notes on corrosion of both front and rear sub‑frames. Over the last four years the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in August 2024 to a series of failures and advisories, with recurring issues on ball joints, anti‑roll‑bar linkages and sub‑frame corrosion. The pattern is clearly one of deteriorating condition rather than stabilising maintenance, and the cumulative defects suggest that significant remedial work will be required before the car can be considered road‑worthy. At 119 002 miles recorded for a 2010 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7 400 mi per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The relatively modest mileage may indicate periods of low utilisation or prolonged storage, both of which can accelerate corrosion on chassis components and promote tyre ageing even when tread wear is modest. The mileage figure does not, however, mask the wear on wear‑items such as ball joints and brake pads, which are driven more by time and exposure than by distance alone. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. The off‑side front track‑rod end ball joint that was recorded as dangerous is a critical load‑bearing component; any play or clunk when steering through bumps is a sign of imminent failure and could lead to loss of steering control. Both front anti‑roll‑bar linkages have been flagged as excessively worn, so a thorough visual inspection of the bushings and ball joints for cracked rubber, corrosion or excessive movement is essential. During a test drive listen for knocking or thudding from the front corners, feel for any looseness in the steering column, and check that the wheels track straight without wandering. The front tyres are already near the legal tread limit and show edge wear, indicating possible mis‑alignment or worn suspension geometry; they should be replaced immediately and an alignment performed. The rear brake pads were recorded at less than 1.5 mm in 2024, so a fresh inspection of pad thickness and disc condition is required, with replacement of pads and possibly discs if scoring or rust is evident. The minor front exhaust leak noted in 2023 should be examined for cracks or perforations in the manifold or pipe, as a leak can raise emissions and cause a loud rattle at higher engine speeds. Given the age of the vehicle, additional time‑based checks are advisable regardless of mileage. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking or perishing, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary, and verify that the 12‑volt battery holds charge and does not show signs of sulphation. Examine all fluid reservoirs for colour and level; engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid should be refreshed if service stamps are absent for more than 12 months. Corrosion on the rear anti‑roll bar and lower suspension arms noted in earlier advisories suggests that the under‑carriage may have been exposed to moisture; a careful inspection for rust on mounting points, brake lines and the chassis is prudent. Finally, request a full service history to confirm that regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and any previous suspension repairs have been documented, as these records will give the buyer confidence that the vehicle’s wear has been managed appropriately.