2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · SN13 YNT

The mechanical history of this 2013 Nissan Qashqai reveals a generally sound and well-maintained vehicle, interrupted only by a single significant failure on the nearside front steering linkage. The most recent test on 27 January 2026 returned a clean pass with no advisories, continuing a pattern of straightforward roadworthiness outcomes since the major defect was rectified. The track rod end ball joint failure recorded on 28 January 2025 was a substantial safety issue, classified as a major defect for excessive play, yet the advisory-free pass on the very same date demonstrates that the component was professionally replaced and the steering geometry subsequently restored. Prior to that isolated incident, the vehicle passed three consecutive tests without any recorded problems, and apart from a deteriorating inner CV joint boot in 2023, the record indicates a car that has consistently met MOT standards throughout its life. With approximately 83,269 miles accumulated over 13 years, the Qashqai averages around 6,405 miles annually, which represents a broadly typical usage profile for its age and class. There are no extended gaps in the testing record and no sudden, unexplained jumps in mileage between successive tests, suggesting continuous and consistent road use rather than periods of inactivity followed by irregular driving. This steady accumulation pattern tends to be kinder to mechanical components than very low annual mileages that allow standing water, condensation, and corrosion to take hold in the underbody, fuel system, and drivetrain seals. The mileage places moderate wear on typical consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, but nothing that would be considered extreme for a vehicle of this vintage. For a prospective buyer, particular focus during inspection should be directed at the steering and front suspension, given the track rod end failure. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front wheels when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for imprecise steering with wandering, vibration through the rack, or uneven tyre wear which can indicate that a replacement track rod end has not been correctly torqued or aligned. With the car parked and on full lock, check for any play or clicking from the inner CV joint area on the nearside front, as the deteriorated boot flagged in 2023 can allow grease to escape and allow water ingress, leading to eventual joint failure. Feel for any vibration through the steering or a shuddering sensation during acceleration, which would suggest the boot has degraded further and the joint itself is now compromised. The rear suspension and braking components also warrant scrutiny even though no specific defects have been recorded, given the age and mileage. On a test drive, apply the brakes firmly from speed to check for any pulling to one side, pedal pulsation suggesting warped discs, or a soft or spongy pedal feel that could indicate aged hydraulic components. With the engine idling, listen for any timing chain rattle on cold start, a known wear item on higher-mileage Qashqais, and check the underside for any signs of oil misting around the cam cover or sump area. Finally, inspect all four tyres for even tread wear across the axle, as inner shoulder wear often points to worn suspension bushes or weak coil springs, both common replacements on Qashqais approaching or exceeding this mileage bracket.