2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · VK13 RYC

The vehicle passed its most recent DVSA MOT test on 17 October 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents a positive and stable outcome at the point of test. Looking back over the available history, the 2021 test was also a clean pass, but from 2022 through 2024 there was a recurring pattern of advisories relating to front brake disc wear and front suspension arm bushes, alongside brake pad wear noted at both front and rear. The absence of any advisories in the latest test suggests either that the wear items have been addressed through replacement or that they have not yet deteriorated to a level requiring advisory attention. This is an improving trend and is consistent with a vehicle that has been conscientiously maintained, though the underlying wear items identified over the preceding three years should not be dismissed without verification of any remedial work undertaken. The recorded mileage of 59,310 miles against a vehicle age of approximately 13 years equates to an annual average of around 4,560 miles, which is notably low for a car of this type and age. Such low usage is typical of second vehicles, short commuter journeys, or cars that have spent considerable periods standing. The mileage recorded across MOT entries appears broadly consistent and does not show any dramatic gaps or sudden accumulations that would raise concerns about clock irregularity. Mechanically, low annual mileage tends to be kinder to internal engine and drivetrain components in terms of wear, but it does mean that many deterioration issues are calendar-related rather than usage-related. Brake discs and callipers can suffer from corrosion and seizing due to infrequent operation, rubber components can perish, and oil and coolant can degrade through age rather than mileage alone. Given the advisories recorded in previous tests concerning front brake discs wearing and pitting, and the front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear on both sides, it is prudent to carry out a thorough physical inspection regardless of the clean 2025 result. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, which would indicate progressed bush wear, and pay attention to uneven or feathered tyre wear across the front axle, as worn suspension bushes frequently cause incorrect wheel geometry. Check the front brake discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and feel for brake shudder or vibration under moderate deceleration, which would suggest disc warping. Inspect the rear brake pads, which were noted as wearing thin in 2024, and confirm whether they have since been replaced, as pads allowed to wear to the backing plate will damage the discs and substantially increase repair costs. In addition to these specific areas, several age and low-mileage related checks should be prioritised. Examine the tyre sidewalls carefully for cracking or perishing, which is common on older tyres even with adequate tread depth, and verify that the manufacture date on the sidewall is within a sensible timeframe as rubber degrades regardless of use. Check the 12 volt battery for signs of weakness, as batteries deteriorate through standing and age, and consider a load test if possible. Inspect the underside of the vehicle, around the suspension, exhaust, and brake lines, for any surface corrosion consistent with long term standing, particularly if the vehicle has been kept outdoors. Finally, verify the service book history to confirm regular oil and filter changes have been carried out at appropriate intervals, and check the condition and age of the coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable, as these degrade with time and should be renewed on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage.