2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · WM17 RVL

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 January 2026, was passed. The test recorded a minor fault – an off‑side registration‑plate lamp out of operation – and two advisories: a measurable play in the off‑side front steering‑rack inner joint and a front brake disc that is worn, pitted or scored but not yet seriously weakened. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in early 2023 to a failure that same year for a dangerous rear‑brake‑pad thickness and a non‑functioning central rear seat‑belt, then onto a series of advisory items that have persisted (steering‑rack play, tyre condition and brake‑disc wear). The pattern suggests that after the serious failure the necessary remedial work was performed and the car has since been maintained at a stable, albeit slightly deteriorating, level; the recurring steering‑rack play and brake‑disc wear indicate components that will likely need attention in the near future. At 87,519 mi the Qashqai has averaged roughly 9,700 mi per year since its 2017 registration, a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal UK average for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would imply long periods of inactivity, nor is the accumulation unusually high. Consequently the wear observed on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension is consistent with its mileage rather than being accelerated by excessive use. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the steering‑rack play noted in both the 2025 and 2026 MOTs. On a test drive feel for any looseness or clunk when turning the wheel at low speed, especially when the vehicle is stationary; a pronounced knock may indicate worn inner tie‑rod bushes or a deteriorating rack assembly that could soon require rebuild or replacement. The front brake disc’s pitted condition should be inspected visually and by checking for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes; excessive disc wear can lead to reduced braking efficiency and may necessitate disc resurfacing or fitting new discs within the next few thousand miles. The front tyre was flagged as close to the legal tread limit in early 2025, so verify tread depth across the tyre’s width and look for uneven wear that could point to mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Although the rear tyres were only noted as slightly damaged or perishing in 2022, their age now exceeds ten years, and rubber degradation can occur even on low‑mileage units; inspect the sidewalls for cracks, dry rot or bulges and replace if any signs of perishing are present. Beyond the recorded advisories, a thorough age‑related inspection is advisable. Confirm that the central rear seat‑belt now operates correctly, as it was a dangerous fault in 2023, and ensure all other seat‑belt pretensioners engage smoothly. Check the condition of the battery, especially the electrolyte level and charge capacity, since a nine‑year‑old unit may be nearing the end of its service life. Examine the coolant, engine oil and brake‑fluid reservoirs for correct levels and any signs of contamination; fluids typically require replacement on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Finally, look for corrosion on the chassis, exhaust mounts and suspension bushings, and verify that the steering‑rack boots are intact to prevent fluid leaks that could accelerate wear. Addressing these items now will give a clearer picture of any imminent maintenance costs and help ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy for the years ahead.