2018 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · SM18 EWL

The Qashqai presents a generally positive roadworthiness profile based on the DVSA records, with the most recent test on 17 May 2025 at the current recorded mileage of 29,601 returning a clean pass and no advisories. Across the five recorded tests spanning 2022 to 2025, the vehicle has consistently met the legal minimum standard at annual intervals, producing four passes and a single failure on 16 May 2022. The absence of any recorded advisories or defects throughout this period suggests a maintenance trend that is stable, with no recurring wear items flagged by testers. The mileage pattern is notably low for the vehicle's age. At eight years old with 29,601 miles recorded, this equates to an average of roughly 3,700 miles annually, which sits well below the typical usage rate for a Qashqai of this generation. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent with steady, light use rather than rapid accumulation. The earlier failure in May 2022, despite no defects being recorded on the system, likely resulted in a retest passed three days later on 19 May 2022. The clean subsequent record, combined with no advisories over the following three tests, indicates no repeat issues were identified by testers. For a prospective buyer, the absence of advisories is encouraging but does not eliminate the need for a hands-on inspection. Low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from dried rubber components, including suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and engine and gearbox mountings, which can degrade through lack of use rather than wear. Brake calipers, particularly on the rear axle, can seize due to corrosion even on lightly used cars, and flexible brake hoses and CV gaiters should be physically checked for perishing. A thorough examination of the underbody and structural sections for surface corrosion is advisable, as annual MOT testing does not require a comprehensive structural survey. Tyres, wipers, battery condition, and fluid levels are items the MOT does not fully cover, so these warrant direct verification. Equally, given the low annual mileage, a buyer should question whether the vehicle has been serviced regularly outside the MOT schedule, as a current MOT pass alone does not confirm routine maintenance. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified technician would be a sensible precaution to identify any deterioration that the clean MOT history cannot reveal. Buying score: 78. Risk level: Low.