2008 Nissan Qashqai 2.0L Diesel · WN58 TNF

The most recent DVSA examination on 26 August 2024 resulted in a Pass, with no advisories or minor items subsequently flagged as Dangerous or Major. However, the broader trend over the past several tests shows a pattern of recurring suspension wear, particularly at the front axle, alongside minor issues with lighting and battery security. Front suspension components including the subframe rear bushes, suspension arm ball joints, and track rod end ball joint have appeared with increasing frequency across the 2020 to 2024 tests, with the offside front suspension arm ball joint reaching an excessively worn Major defect on the 16 January 2020 failure. The recurrence of these advisories suggests progressive deterioration rather than a one-off issue, and although the vehicle remains roadworthy, a prospective buyer should anticipate further front suspension work in the near term. With a recorded mileage of 126,519 miles over approximately 18 years, this Qashqai averages around 7,029 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and class. There are no excessively large gaps in the MOT record and no evidence of severe underuse, which is reassuring as chronically low-mileage examples of this age often suffer from dried seals, perished rubber, and brake corrosion from prolonged standing. The mileage accumulation appears steady, meaning consumables such as suspension bushes, brake discs and pads, clutch and drivetrain components have all been worked in a normal manner. At this overall odometer reading, attention should be paid to age-related wear items irrespective of recent test results, particularly given the vehicle is now 18 years old. Given the recurring front suspension advisories across multiple tests, a thorough inspection of the front axle is essential. The subframe rear bushes, lower suspension arm ball joints, and track rod ends should be physically checked for free play, with the vehicle raised if possible. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises over speed bumps, uneven roads, and during full lock manoeuvres, as worn bushes and ball joints typically announce themselves with such symptoms. Uneven or feathered tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres, would further corroborate worn suspension components. The advisories from 2024 specifically noted both nearside and offside front subframe rear bushes as worn, indicating that renewal may now be due. The CV boot advisory from 2020, the binding offside rear service brake noted in the same period, and the earlier rear brake pad advisory all warrant physical verification during inspection. On a test drive, listen for any graunching or grinding from the rear brakes, which may indicate a seized caliper or worn pads following limited use. Check the condition of all CV boots for splits or grease loss, and inspect the front tyres for uneven wear patterns consistent with suspension misalignment. Given the vehicle's age, it is also prudent to verify the timing chain or cambelt service history, check for oil leaks from the engine and gearbox, examine the exhaust system for corrosion particularly around joints and the catalyst, and assess the age of the 12V battery. Brake fluid and coolant should ideally have been renewed on a calendar basis, and confirmation of a documented service history with regular oil changes will be invaluable in determining how well this high-mileage but well-used Qashqai has been maintained.