2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · WN58 WHF

The most recent MOT test passed on 15 January 2026, but the maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern regarding the vehicle's rear suspension. While the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, the recurring advisories for corrosion on both the nearside and offside rear suspension arms over the last two consecutive testing cycles indicate that this issue is not being addressed. This suggests a progressive degradation of the metalwork rather than a stable maintenance profile, meaning the corrosion is likely advancing toward a point where it may compromise structural integrity or cause mechanical failure. The recorded mileage of 75,187 miles is notably low for a 17-year-old vehicle, representing an average annual usage of approximately 4,423 miles. While this lower mileage typically implies less wear on the engine, transmission, and internal drivetrain components, it also presents specific risks associated with infrequent use. Vehicles that spend long periods standing or are used only for short journeys are more susceptible to moisture-related issues, such as brake caliper seizing, exhaust system corrosion, and the chemical degradation of fluids like brake fluid and coolant, which can occur regardless of the distance driven. A prospective buyer should conduct a rigorous inspection of the rear suspension area, looking for significant scale or heavy corrosion on the arms and mounting points. During a test drive, pay close attention to any knocking, clunking, or squeaking noises emanating from the rear, particularly when navigating uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these are symptoms of failing suspension bushes or weakened metal. You should also check the rear tyres for uneven wear patterns, which would indicate that the corrosion is beginning to affect the suspension geometry and wheel alignment. Given the vehicle's age and low usage profile, you must also check for age-related perishing. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for fine cracks or rubber degradation, as tyres can become unsafe due to age even if they have ample tread. Verify the 12V battery health, as infrequent charging cycles can lead to reduced capacity. Finally, ensure that the service history confirms that fluids have been changed based on time intervals, and confirm that the nearside registration plate lamp has been rectified, as it was noted as a minor defect in the most recent MOT.