2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · SD09 SWX

The mechanical history of this vehicle indicates a recurring pattern of front-end steering and suspension wear. While it passed its most recent test on 7 November 2025, it failed just days prior due to excessive play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint. This failure follows a persistent advisory regarding the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage, which was also noted as having slight play during the November 2025 test. The presence of play in the suspension arm ball joints, noted as far back as 2023, suggests that the front suspension components are reaching the end of their operational life and require ongoing monitoring. With 126,000 miles recorded over 17 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,400 miles per year. This usage pattern is consistent with typical annual mileage for a car of this age, suggesting it has not been subjected to high-intensity motorway use. However, the record shows specific issues with rubber-based components and seals, as evidenced by repeated advisories for perishing tyres and light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber noted in 2022. The mileage-coupled wear on the suspension geometry often leads to the degradation of bushings and ball joints seen in the recent failure history. During a test drive, specific attention should be paid to the front steering and handling. Given the history of track rod end failure and anti-roll bar linkage issues, listen for audible knocks or clunking when navigating over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Any pull in the steering wheel or vibration could indicate that the play in these joints has worsened. One should also inspect the nearside rear tyre for signs of sidewall cracking or damage, as this component has been flagged for concern across multiple years, indicating the rubber may be becoming brittle with age rather than just tread depth. The braking system also shows signs of age, with a 2023 advisory noting rear brake discs being worn and pitted. A buyer should check for any pedal judder under heavy braking, which would indicate warped discs, and listen for grinding noises. Additionally, the vehicle previously failed in 2023 due to a dangerous defect regarding the offside rear inner tyre tread depth, highlighting an area where maintenance has previously been overlooked. Ensure the horn is fully functional, as this was a point of failure in 2022, and verify that all lighting, including the offside rear stop lamp, is operating correctly to avoid recurring electrical or bulb failures.