2016 Infiniti QX70 3.0L Diesel · SF16 PCA

A history of recurring steering and braking component wear defines this vehicle's mechanical profile, despite a clean pass recorded on 14 June 2025. The record shows a fluctuating trend of component degradation, moving from minor suspension and steering advisories in 2019 and 2022 to a significant failure in June 2024 involving an inoperative engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp and a dangerous parking brake deficiency. While the most recent test indicates these specific issues have been addressed, the presence of repeated advisories regarding steering rack inner joints and brake disc condition suggests a pattern of wear in the front-end assembly and braking system over several years. The vehicle has covered 100,443 miles over its ten-year lifespan, averaging approximately 10,044 miles per year. This mileage accumulation is consistent with typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age and does not suggest periods of prolonged inactivity or excessive high-speed motorway running. Mechanically, this level of usage implies that consumables such as suspension bushes, ball joints, and braking components are subject to standard wear cycles, which is reflected in the documented advisories for steering and disc surfaces. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and front suspension during a test drive, given the repeated advisories for play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint and ball joints in previous years. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or dull thudding sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds, as these can indicate continued wear in the steering rack or lower suspension arms. Any feeling of vagueness or wandering in the steering direction could also point to unresolved play in these critical linkages. The braking system also warrants a thorough evaluation, following the 2024 failure for inadequate parking brake efficiency and previous advisories regarding pitted and scored brake discs. During the test drive, check for any pedal judder or vibration when applying the brakes at speed, which can be a symptom of uneven disc surfaces. Additionally, test the parking brake's engagement strength on a gradient to ensure the secondary braking system is fully functional and meets the required efficiency levels, as the previous dangerous failure indicates this component has required significant attention.