2015 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SC15 UXR

The 2015 Nissan Qashqai passed its most recent MOT test on 7 July 2026, though it is worth noting that the vehicle failed on the immediately preceding day, 6 July 2026, on a major defect relating to an offside front side repeater not working, which was subsequently rectified to allow the pass. While the overall pass record since 2021 is encouraging, the recurrence of brake-related advisories on the offside rear across both the failed and subsequent passed tests indicates a developing issue that warrants close attention. Specifically, advisories were logged for an offside rear brake disc worn and pitted, offside rear brake imbalance just meeting requirements, fluctuating offside rear service brake, and a wearing thin offside rear inner brake pad. In addition, an advisory was recorded for slight lateral play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint. These advisories collectively suggest that the braking and suspension systems are showing signs of wear progression and should not be dismissed as routine. The maintenance trend over the long term has been largely stable, but the cluster of brake and suspension advisories on the recent test indicates deterioration that could escalate into failure items if left unaddressed. With recorded mileage of 78,028 miles over approximately 11 years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 7,093 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its class and age. There are no significant mileage gaps evident between test entries, suggesting the vehicle has been in consistent use rather than left standing for extended periods. This level of usage means wear on consumables such as brake components, tyres, and suspension bushes is progressing at a moderate and predictable rate, rather than being subject to the risks associated with either very high mileage accumulation or prolonged inactivity. Mechanical implications for this usage profile are relatively standard, though the recent brake disc and pad wear advisories suggest that the rear braking components may now be approaching a service interval. The fact that brake disc pitting advisories on the nearside and offside front have appeared recurrently from 2021 through 2025 also points to corrosion build-up on the disc surfaces, a common finding on vehicles used for regular short urban journeys where discs do not get hot enough to self-clean. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority on inspection is the offside rear braking system given the cluster of recent advisories. On a test drive, listen for any rear brake binding, uneven pulling, or a pulsing sensation through the brake pedal, and verify that the vehicle stops squarely without pulling to one side. Inspect the offside rear brake pad thickness visually if possible and check the offside rear disc for visible scoring, lipping, or corrosion pitting, as the advisories suggest these components are nearing the end of their service life. The offside front suspension arm ball joint should also be examined for any worsening play; listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and check the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover which was flagged as severely deteriorated in 2025. If the dust cover remains perished, contamination of the ball joint will accelerate wear, and the joint itself may require replacement sooner than expected. Given the 2023 dangerous failure for a nearside front tyre bulge, all four tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall damage, bulges, or cracking, even if currently within legal limits, as tyre structural failures can occur with little warning on an eleven-year-old vehicle. Beyond the recorded defects, age-appropriate checks are strongly recommended. Brake fluid should be tested for moisture content, as it typically requires replacement every two years regardless of mileage, and coolant condition should be verified. The 12V battery should be load-tested, particularly if the vehicle has been used predominantly for short journeys, and the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner inspected for cracking given the vehicle's age. Examine the underside of the vehicle, including suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and exhaust mounting rubbers, for perishing and corrosion. The bonnet support stay advisory from 2022 should also be confirmed as rectified, as a missing stay is both an MOT failure item and a safety concern. Finally, verify the service book history to ensure cambelt or timing chain servicing intervals have been observed per Nissan schedules, as neglect in this area can result in significant engine damage on a vehicle of this age and mileage.