2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SC17 LZP

The most recent MOT test for this 2017 Nissan Qashqai was conducted on 2025-10-31 and resulted in a clean pass, with no defects recorded. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures that suggest ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. The 2023 failure—marked by major issues such as excessive wear in the near-side front suspension arm ball joint and multiple suspension arm pin/bush advisories—indicates that the suspension system has been under significant stress, particularly in the front axle assembly. While the subsequent MOTs have passed, the presence of persistent advisories like corroded rear axle components, worn brake discs, and deteriorating CV joint boots highlights that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards. The fact that these issues recur rather than resolve implies that the suspension and braking subsystems are nearing or have exceeded their operational limits, warranting immediate attention to prevent further degradation or safety risks. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 121,272 miles at the time of assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 13,475 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a nine-year-old car. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components like suspension bushes, brake pads, and drivetrain joints, as evidenced by the MOT history. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular, heavy use, which may explain the rapid deterioration of consumables and mechanical elements. However, the high mileage alone does not justify the severity of the recorded defects; rather, it underscores that the vehicle has been subjected to prolonged, demanding conditions that have exacerbated pre-existing wear patterns. For a prospective buyer, this implies that while the car may still be roadworthy, the cumulative stress on its components demands a thorough inspection to identify any underlying structural or functional compromises before purchase. Given the recurring advisories and major failure from 2023, the buyer should conduct a meticulous mechanical inspection focusing on the front suspension and braking systems. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front axle, particularly around the suspension arms and ball joints, which may indicate further wear or detachment. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the CV joint boots for any signs of leakage or damage that might compromise the constant velocity joint. Additionally, examine the brake discs for excessive pitting, warping, or binding, and verify that the calipers are not seized or leaking brake fluid. The corroded rear axle components and thin brake pads also warrant attention; if the rear suspension is compromised, there may be excessive movement or grinding noises when cornering or braking. If the vehicle passes these checks, proceed to inspect the exhaust system for emissions compliance and structural integrity, as well as the tyre condition for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage over time. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance has been adhered to, particularly for fluid servicing. Given the high annual mileage, the 12V battery should be tested for capacity and cleanliness, as prolonged idling or standing can accelerate corrosion in terminals and lead to failure. Check the engine oil and transmission fluid for degradation, which may be evident from dark, gritty contaminants or a burnt smell. Inspect the exhaust for signs of rust or structural weakness, especially in the catalytic converter and tailpipe, as corrosion can compromise emissions performance. Finally, a visual inspection of the vehicle’s undercarriage for rust spots, particularly around wheel arches and under the rear axle, is critical, as the MOT advisories suggest corrosion has already begun to affect critical components. If the buyer opts to proceed with the purchase, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to confirm the absence of hidden damage and to prioritise maintenance tasks such as suspension arm replacement, brake pad and disc renewal, and CV joint servicing before further wear compromises the vehicle’s safety and reliability.