2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · WN62 MPV

The most recent MOT test on the 2012 Nissan Qashqai, conducted on 2026-08-19, resulted in a passing grade with three persistent advisories: front brake pads approaching end-of-service life, rear brake pads similarly worn thin, and all four tyres showing minor cracking or perishing. This follows a consistent pattern of passing MOTs over the past five years, with no failures or major defects recorded outside of these recurring advisories. The absence of any failures in the last three years suggests a stable maintenance record, though the advisories indicate that brake pad replacement is imminent and should be prioritised to prevent reduced braking performance and potential safety risks, particularly given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 72,877 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,206 miles per year, which is notably lower than the typical wear rates expected for a car of this age. Such low mileage can result from prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without regular use, which may exacerbate issues like tyre perishing, standing corrosion, and fluid degradation. However, the consistent MOT history suggests that the owner has managed to avoid severe mechanical failures linked to high mileage, though this could also reflect careful maintenance rather than robust performance under normal driving conditions. Given the advisories on brake pad wear and tyre condition, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system. Focus on the front and rear brake pads, checking for uneven wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or warping, and listen for any abnormal grinding or squeaking noises during a test drive, particularly when applying the brakes firmly. The rear anti-roll bar corrosion advisories from previous MOTs indicate that rust has developed but not compromised structural integrity, though further inspection is advisable to ensure no underlying damage to the suspension components. Inspect the anti-roll bar mounts and bushings for any signs of excessive play or deterioration, as this could lead to suspension clunks or uneven ride quality. For the tyres, which show minor cracking, the buyer should verify that the damage does not extend into the tread area, as this could compromise grip and handling. Given the low annual mileage, the tyres may also have perished from age rather than wear, so checking the sidewall for signs of dry rot or delamination is critical. The vehicle’s age and the advisories on brake pad wear suggest that the owner should also review the brake fluid level and condition, as standing brake fluid can absorb moisture and degrade over time, leading to reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, a visual inspection of the brake discs for corrosion, binding calipers, or excessive warping is recommended, as standing vehicles are prone to corrosion on brake surfaces, which can cause binding and reduced braking performance. Finally, the buyer should ensure that all fluids—particularly the engine oil, coolant, and differential fluid—are topped up and free from contamination, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sludge formation and reduced lubrication effectiveness.