2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SC12 UNM

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 6 June 2026, although it is important to note that it failed on the same day before the pass was achieved. The overall maintenance trend is currently worsening. Between 2020 and 2024, the MOT history was remarkably stable, with only minor notes regarding engine covers obscuring components. However, the 2025 and 2026 records indicate a sharp increase in mechanical defects and advisories, specifically concerning the suspension, steering, and drivetrain, suggesting the vehicle has entered a period of accelerated wear. The recorded mileage of 148,128 miles is consistent with the age of the vehicle, averaging roughly 10,581 miles per year. This indicates a steady pattern of usage rather than periods of prolonged standing, which generally means the engine and seals have remained lubricated. However, this mileage puts the vehicle in a bracket where major wear-and-tear components, such as suspension bushes, ball joints, and drivetrain boots, are expected to reach the end of their operational lifespan, as evidenced by the recent test failures and advisories. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the chassis and suspension. The reported play in the anti-roll bar linkages and the front suspension arm ball joint will likely manifest as audible knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed steering manoeuvres. Furthermore, the corroded nearside rear coil spring is a significant concern, as corrosion weakens the structural integrity of the spring and can lead to a sudden snap. A thorough physical inspection of the underside is required to assess the extent of this corrosion and the current state of the suspension bushings. Critical attention must also be given to the nearside front inner drive shaft constant velocity boot, which is recorded as severely deteriorated. A failed CV boot allows essential grease to escape and road grit to enter, which will inevitably lead to the failure of the joint; listen for rhythmic clicking sounds during tight turns. Additionally, the previous advisory regarding parking brake efficiency and the mention of an oil leak suggest that the braking system may require adjustment and the engine may have weeping seals. Ensure the handbrake holds firmly on a gradient and check the engine bay for fresh oil residue.