2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Petrol · WD17 KPR

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 15 August 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, representing a clean and favourable outcome at the point of test. Reviewing the broader DVSA history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable, with passes recorded consistently at annual intervals and only one minor failure in 2021 relating to ineffective windscreen wipers and a child seat obscuring inspection of an adult belt, neither of which are structural or mechanical concerns. However, a clear pattern emerges regarding the steering and braking systems, which warrants careful attention. Advisories have appeared on multiple occasions for front brake pads wearing thin, and on two separate occasions for play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint, alongside a related advisory concerning the nearside front track rod end ball joint in 2023. Whilst these items have not yet escalated to failure points, the recurrence of steering component wear suggests an ongoing degradation that may soon require rectification. With 87,403 miles recorded over nine years, the vehicle has covered approximately 9,711 miles annually, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a family crossover of this age and type. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged standing, nor are there any indications of rapid mileage accumulation that might imply motorway or fleet-style heavy use. This moderate annual mileage is generally beneficial for mechanical longevity, as it tends to keep components such as the clutch, drivetrain, and braking system within normal wear parameters, whilst also avoiding the risks associated with extended periods of inactivity, such as brake disc pitting, fluid degradation, and corrosion of underbody components. Given the recurring advisories concerning the front brake pads and steering rack inner joint, a prospective buyer should undertake a thorough physical inspection and an attentive test drive. On the road, listen for any knocking, clunking, or rattling from the front suspension, particularly when traversing uneven surfaces, speed bumps, or during low-speed manoeuvres, as these symptoms often accompany worn steering rack internals or deteriorating suspension components. Steering responsiveness should be checked for any vagueness, slack, or uneven self-centring, which could indicate worsening play in the rack or track rod end. The brake pedal feel should be assessed for firmness, and the vehicle should be checked at low speed for any pulling to one side, which may indicate binding calipers or uneven pad wear. Given the front pads were noted as wearing thin as recently as 2025, they should now be physically inspected for remaining material thickness, and the front brake discs examined for lipping, scoring, or corrosion, particularly given the moderate mileage which can lead to disc wear disproportionate to pad wear. Beyond the documented advisories, the vehicle's age of nine years necessitates careful attention to time-based deterioration regardless of mileage. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing, cracking, or age-related degradation, as rubber compounds harden over the years and can compromise safety even where tread depth remains adequate. The 12-volt battery should be tested for its state of health, as units of this age frequently fail without warning. Brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox or transmission fluid should be verified as recently serviced, as these degrade with calendar age rather than mileage. The underbody and suspension components should be raised and inspected for corrosion, paying particular attention to the rear axle, suspension arms, and mounting points, whilst the coil springs should be checked for signs of sagging or corrosion-related fracture. Finally, confirmation of a complete and stamped service history, ideally with evidence of cambelt or timing chain inspection as appropriate to the engine variant, would provide valuable reassurance of consistent mechanical upkeep throughout the vehicle's life.