2019 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · VT19 XDA

The latest MOT test for the 2019 Nissan Qashqai on 2026-07-23 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive shift from the previous failure in July 2025, where the vehicle encountered a critical offside daytime running lamp failure and a rear brake pad advisory indicating significant wear. This recent trend suggests a return to consistent roadworthiness, though the advisory from the 2025 failure—particularly the rear brake pad wear—remains a persistent concern. The absence of further failures or advisories in the intervening years points to either effective remedial action or a stabilisation of underlying issues, but the need to address the brake system remains paramount. The 2024 and 2023 advisories, while not failing the vehicle, highlight recurring wear and potential mechanical fatigue in suspension components and tyres, which could escalate if left unchecked. The recorded mileage of 67,619 miles for a seven-year-old Qashqai represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,660 miles per year, aligning with typical driving patterns for this model. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but it does imply a degree of regular use, which can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in active service, potentially contributing to the observed wear patterns noted in the MOT history. However, the lack of a recent service history or service book stamps means there is no direct evidence of scheduled maintenance, which could mean that time-based servicing—such as fluid top-ups, brake fluid flushes, or suspension component inspections—has not been performed. Given the recurring advisories in the MOT history, particularly the rear brake pad wear and front suspension ball joint play, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The rear brake pads showing 2-3mm thickness are dangerously low and require immediate replacement, as further wear will compromise stopping performance and increase the risk of brake failure. Symptoms to watch for during a test drive include a spongy or uneven brake pedal feel, reduced stopping distance, or a grinding noise when applying brakes, which may indicate worn pads or warped discs. Additionally, listen for any unusual noises from the suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which could signal worn suspension bushes or ball joints. The front track rod ends showing slight play are a warning sign of impending failure, potentially leading to steering instability or misalignment. Inspect the front suspension arms for excessive movement or corrosion, and check for uneven tyre wear, which may indicate misaligned wheels or suspension issues. For the tyres, the advisories from 2024 indicate near-legal wear on the front tyres and signs of cracking or perishing on the rear tyres. The nearside and offside front tyres are worn close to the legal limit, posing a safety risk and reducing traction. The rear tyres’ cracking or perishing suggests that the rubber has degraded over time, which can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of blowouts or hydroplaning. The buyer should replace all tyres to the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and inspect the sidewall for any signs of damage or dry rot, which can lead to catastrophic failure. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and overall health, as a failing battery can cause electrical gremlins and may require replacement, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, the buyer should check for any time-based fluid degradation, such as the brake fluid, which should be flushed every two years, and the coolant, which can degrade over time if not changed. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, and verify that the vehicle’s emissions compliance is up to date, as older vehicles may require a more thorough emissions test if they have not been serviced recently.