2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · SP61 FBC

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 9 January 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning. A pattern of repeated failures and recurring advisories suggests a reactive approach to maintenance rather than a preventative one. The frequency of failures over the last four years indicates that the vehicle is suffering from progressive wear and tear, with several components failing shortly after previous tests, suggesting that only the minimum requirements for a pass are being addressed. With 107,885 recorded miles over approximately 15 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,192 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a vehicle of this age and suggests a balanced duty cycle. While the mileage is not excessively high, the mechanical condition appears to be more influenced by environmental factors and age-related degradation than by high-mileage wear, particularly regarding the structural and braking systems. Prospective buyers should be extremely cautious regarding the braking system and structural integrity. There is a persistent record of corrosion on the rear brake pipes, which have been noted as covered in grease or other materials; this is often a sign of attempted corrosion masking or temporary protection. You must verify if these pipes have been fully replaced or merely treated. Given the history of binding rear brakes and parking brake inefficiency, listen for any dragging sounds during the test drive and check for excessive heat emanating from the rear drums or discs after a short journey. The general underside corrosion and the fact the vehicle has been undersealed suggest a history of exposure to salt or damp environments, which can hide deeper structural rust. The suspension and drivetrain require close scrutiny. The recent failure of an anti-roll bar linkage and a previous track rod end failure indicate a general wear of the steering and suspension bushes. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. Of particular concern is the severely deteriorated inner CV boot on the nearside front; if the joint has been exposed to road grit, it may soon fail, leading to a rhythmic clicking sound during acceleration or turning. Ensure that the CV boot has been replaced and that there is no play in the drive shafts. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that calendar-based fluid changes have been performed, as the vehicle's age makes fluid degradation a significant factor.