2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SH09 PCX

The 2009 Nissan Qashqai currently holds a valid MOT certificate, having passed its most recent test on 1 December 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded. However, a closer look at the recent DVSA history reveals a slightly unusual pattern, as the vehicle was presented for test on 28 November 2025 and failed before passing just three days later on the subsequent attempt. A similar pattern is evident in December 2023, when the Qashqai failed on 7 December but then passed the following day on 8 December. While both subsequent passes were achieved without any advisories being noted on the official record, the repeated consecutive test attempts could suggest that minor rectifications were carried out between presentations, or that initial failures were for borderline items easily remedied on the spot. Overall, the maintenance trend appears largely stable, though a prospective buyer may wish to clarify directly with the seller what work was undertaken between the failed and passed dates to ensure full transparency regarding the vehicle's condition. With 124,531 miles recorded over approximately seventeen years, the Qashqai has averaged roughly 7,325 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and in line with average UK annual driving habits. The mileage progression appears consistent, indicating regular rather than sporadic use, which is generally favourable for mechanical longevity as components such as the timing chain, clutch, turbocharger (where fitted) and engine oil seals have been kept active rather than allowed to deteriorate through prolonged standing. This level of use suggests that consumable items will have been replaced at sensible intervals, though it is worth noting that higher-mileage examples of this generation Qashqai commonly suffer from wear to suspension components, particularly rear coil springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bar bushes. Given the largely clean MOT record, a prospective buyer should focus on age and mileage-related inspections rather than chasing specific advisory items. At seventeen years old, tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing, cracking and checking from UV exposure and age degradation, regardless of tread depth, as rubber compounds deteriorate over time even on lightly used vehicles. The 12V battery is highly likely to be due for replacement if it has not been changed recently, and the owner should be asked for evidence of recent replacement. Brake discs, particularly on a vehicle that has seen regular use, may exhibit lipping or corrosion on the edges, and the calipers should be checked for seizing or uneven pad wear, which can manifest as pulling to one side under braking or a grinding sensation. Additional checks should include verification of the full service history, particularly evidence of cambelt replacement if the Qashqai is fitted with the 1.5 or 1.6 dCi diesel engine, as the timing belt on these units is due every five years or 60,000 miles and failure can result in catastrophic engine damage. Coolant and brake fluid should both have been renewed in line with calendar-based schedules rather than purely mileage intervals, as these fluids degrade chemically over time. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which commonly indicates worn wishbone bushes or anti-roll bar drop links, both known weaknesses on this model. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the rear silencer and joints, as a seventeen-year-old vehicle in regular use is approaching the typical lifespan of replacement exhaust components, and check for any oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing, which are common on higher-mileage Qashqais of this era.