2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · T23 LCA

A clear pattern of recurring front suspension, brake disc, and tyre wear advisories defines the mechanical story of this 2017 Nissan Qashqai, with each of the last three MOT examinations flagging ongoing deterioration in broadly the same areas. The most recent test on 1 September 2026 returned a pass, but carried forward advisories for worn and pitted front inner brake discs, slight play in the offside front track rod end ball joint, and worn front suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides. These advisories mirror those issued at the August 2025 test, where the same front brake disc wear and front suspension arm bush wear were again noted, alongside a deteriorated rear number plate. Earlier records from 2022 and 2023 showed the beginnings of this pattern, with thinning brake pads, worn front discs, and tyres repeatedly flagged at or near legal limits. Across all seven recorded MOT tests there have been no outright failures, but the consistency of component wear advisories suggests that consumable braking, steering, and suspension items have been on a steady downward trajectory rather than being addressed between tests. Mileage accumulation over the nine-year life of this vehicle works out at approximately 9,400 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a Qashqai of this age and does not point to either low-use garage storage or unusually heavy motorway mileage. The MOT records themselves only confirm a recorded odometer reading of 84,682 miles at the most recent test, with no significant gaps in annual testing that would suggest prolonged periods off the road. There is no evidence of a sudden mileage jump between consecutive tests, and the relatively even annual usage indicates a vehicle that has been in regular daily service rather than one suffering extended standing time. Mechanically, this kind of usage pattern would be expected to produce even wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, and tyres, which aligns closely with the advisory pattern observed across the MOT history. The front brake discs warrant particular attention during a pre-purchase inspection, as they have been flagged for pitting and scoring in three consecutive tests from 2022 through 2026, with the 2026 advisory specifically noting the inner brake disc. On a test drive, listen for any rotational scraping or grinding when moving off from a standstill, feel for brake pedal pulsation or judder under firm application, and check for any pulling to one side that might indicate uneven disc surface wear. The front suspension arm pins or bushes, flagged in both 2025 and 2026, are worth investigating by pushing down firmly on each front corner and releasing to check for excessive bouncing or delayed damping, while also listening for clonks or knocking noises over uneven surfaces and speed bumps. The slight play noted in the offside front track rod end ball joint is a steering component defect that should prompt a close check for any wandering or lack of self-centring in the steering on the road, as well as a request for a more recent measurement of the steering play to confirm it has not progressed to a failure-level defect. Tyre condition has been a persistent advisory theme, with both front and rear tyres flagged for wear close to the legal limit, edge wear, cracking, or perishing in 2021, 2022, and 2023, though no tyre-related advisories appear in the last two tests. Given that tyres on a vehicle of this age and mileage typically need replacement every three to four years depending on compound and use, a physical inspection of the sidewalls for perishing cracks and a check of the tread depth with a gauge is worthwhile, even if the most recent test passed without comment. The recurring rear brake pad wear advisory from 2022 and 2023, combined with the front disc scoring, suggests the braking system as a whole is approaching a stage where pad and possibly disc replacement should be budgeted for. Finally, the undertray fitment noted in multiple tests means a standard ramp inspection may be limited, so requesting that the undertrays be removed for a fuller visual check of the engine, subframe, and exhaust condition would be a sensible precaution before purchase.