2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SL07 ABL

The latest MOT test for the 2017 Nissan Qashqai on 2026-03-03 was passed, marking a stable maintenance trend over the past three years. While the vehicle has consistently received advisories—particularly around suspension arm bush wear, front tyre wear nearing legal limits, and rear tyre perishing—these findings have remained consistent rather than worsening. The absence of any serious failures or structural defects in recent tests suggests that while the car has experienced some wear-related issues, it remains mechanically sound for its age. The recurring advisories on suspension components indicate a need for ongoing attention, but they do not currently pose an immediate roadworthiness risk. The recorded mileage of 70,047 miles for a nine-year-old vehicle reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,783 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age. This usage level suggests reasonable driving habits without extreme wear patterns, though the consistent advisories on tyres and suspension may imply either prolonged periods of light use or occasional heavy loading. Tyre wear progression, particularly on the front tyres nearing legal limits in previous tests, could indicate either underinflation, misalignment, or uneven load distribution over time. The rear tyre perishing advisories suggest that while the tyres have been used, they have also been exposed to prolonged dry or harsh conditions that accelerate ageing, which is more common in vehicles left stationary for extended periods rather than high-mileage wear. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension system and tyres, given the recurring advisories. The worn suspension arm bushes—particularly on the front offside—may cause subtle clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, or a slight loss of ride height when accelerating or braking. Listen for any irregular suspension movements or uneven tyre wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or binding calipers. The front tyres nearing legal limits should be replaced promptly to avoid compromised traction, especially in wet conditions, and the rear tyres showing perishing signs should be inspected for sidewall cracking, which can compromise structural integrity if left unaddressed. Additionally, check for any signs of brake disc corrosion or binding calipers, as the previous advisory on front brake discs suggests potential uneven wear or heat damage, which could lead to pulsating brakes or reduced stopping performance. Beyond the mechanical checks, a thorough inspection should include the vehicle’s electrical systems, given the history of wiper blade failures. Test the windscreen wipers for responsiveness and ensure the rear wiper is fully functional, as a defective blade can impair visibility during adverse weather. Inspect the 12V battery for corrosion on terminals and ensure it holds a charge, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain from parasitic loads or age-related degradation. Finally, verify that all fluids—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—are at appropriate levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear, especially in a vehicle that has been driven at moderate mileage but may have been stationary for extended periods. Check service book records for the last scheduled fluid changes and consider a comprehensive service if the last entry is more than two years old, as time-based maintenance is critical for components like the suspension and exhaust system.