2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · SW17 EFV

The most recent DVSA examination on 21 November 2025 resulted in a Pass, continuing a consistent pattern of roadworthy outcomes stretching back through the vehicle's recorded history. However, the accumulation and recurrence of advisories over the last three tests indicate a maintenance trend that, while not yet critical, is gradually worsening and warrants close attention. The 2023 test flagged general brake pad wear and pitted or scored brake discs across the axles, followed by deteriorating front suspension arm bushes in 2024 and again in 2025, alongside a nearside rear tyre approaching the legal tread limit. The presence of the same advisory category for the front lower suspension bushes in consecutive years suggests progressive wear that has not yet resulted in excessive movement but is on a trajectory to do so. A 2022 failure for a dangerously perished nearside rear tyre with exposed cords was rectified prior to the subsequent pass, illustrating that tyre condition has been an ongoing concern on this vehicle. The recorded mileage of 50,369 miles against an approximate vehicle age of nine years equates to a very modest annual average of around 5,600 miles, which is considerably below the typical usage rate for a family crossover of this vintage. While lower mileage reduces wear on internal drivetrain components such as the engine, gearbox and clutch, it carries its own mechanical implications, particularly where a vehicle has spent extended periods standing. Brake discs and callipers can corrode and seize through inactivity, coolant and brake fluid degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, and rubber components including tyres, wiper blades and suspension bushes deteriorate from age and exposure rather than use. The recurring advisory for torn rear wiper blades and the 2022 tyre perishing issue are consistent with age-related rubber degradation rather than wear from use. For a prospective buyer, a thorough physical inspection should begin with the front suspension, as the recurring advisories for lower arm pin and bush deterioration indicate that the polyurethane or rubber bushes are reaching the end of their serviceable life. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces and during full-lock manoeuvres, and feel for vague or wandering steering response. With the vehicle unladen, attempt to rock each front wheel vertically and laterally to detect any slack in the bushes or wishbone joints that the MOT examiner may have deemed within tolerance but which could deteriorate rapidly. The 2023 advisories for thin brake pads and pitted brake discs also warrant attention; check the pad material thickness through the wheel spokes, and on the road be alert for any vibration or shudder through the steering wheel or brake pedal under firm application, which would indicate the discs have worn beyond their service limit. Beyond the documented advisories, the age and low-mileage profile of this Qashqai demands several time-based inspections. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing and bulges even if the tread depth appears adequate, as rubber compounds harden with age and the 2022 cord-exposure failure shows this vehicle has previously suffered in this area. Lift any fuel filler or bonnet and inspect for battery date stickers, as a nine-year-old original 12V battery is well beyond its reliable service life and prone to cold-start failure. Check beneath the vehicle for any signs of fluid leakage from the engine, gearbox and cooling system, particularly around the oil filter housing and radiator, and verify the condition and date of the brake fluid, which should typically be renewed every two years. Finally, confirm a complete service history with evidence of cambelt or chain replacement according to Nissan's recommended intervals, and ensure that the coolant and automatic transmission fluid, if applicable, have been renewed on a calendar basis to guard against internal corrosion and seal degradation.