2014 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · SL14 XHA

The most recent MOT, carried out on 20 August 2025, was a pass, the only comment being an advisory that a near‑side rear child seat prevented a full inspection of the adult belt. Apart from that, the vehicle has shown a generally stable maintenance pattern: after a major failure in June 2023 when the off‑side rear coil spring fractured, the defect was evidently rectified and the car has passed subsequent tests in 2024 and 2025, though the same advisory about wear on the near‑side front suspension arm pin or bush has persisted since mid‑2023. This suggests that while the major structural issue has been addressed, there is an ongoing, low‑level suspension concern that has not yet progressed to a failure. At 71,402 mi for a 2014 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 5,950 mi per year, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage rather than heavy, continuous driving. The modest mileage reduces the cumulative wear on wear‑items such as tyre tread, brake pads and clutch, but the calendar age means that rubber components, seals and electronic systems may have deteriorated simply from time and exposure. Potential issues to watch for include tyre sidewall cracking from ageing, battery capacity loss, and corrosion of suspension bushings that have not been exercised regularly. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the rear suspension where the coil spring was replaced after the 2023 failure. Verify that the spring is correctly seated, that there is no audible clunk when the rear wheels are rocked, and that the ride height is even on both sides. Examine the near‑side front suspension arm bush and pin for any looseness, excessive play or uneven tyre wear that could indicate the advisory is becoming a fault. During a test drive listen for any knocking or shuddering when negotiating bumps or cornering, and feel for any wandering or vague steering feedback that might betray worn bushings or a mis‑aligned rear spring. Because the vehicle has spent many years with relatively low mileage, also check age‑related items. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for dry rot, cracking or bulges and confirm the tread depth exceeds the legal minimum; the DOT code will tell you the tyre’s manufacture date. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and look for corrosion on terminals, as a battery older than six years often needs replacement. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids – and note their colour and any signs of contamination; fluids degrade over time even without high mileage and should be refreshed according to calendar intervals. Finally, look for any signs of oil, coolant or brake fluid leaks, ensure the brake discs are free from deep rust or scoring, and confirm that the calipers move freely without binding. A thorough visual and road‑test inspection addressing these points will give you confidence in the car’s roadworthiness and highlight any imminent maintenance that may be required.