2013 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Diesel · WN63 XKB

The most recent MOT test on 2025-10-15 resulted in a passing grade, though it was accompanied by several critical advisories that warrant careful consideration. Over the past five years, the vehicle’s MOT history exhibits a pattern of recurring wear-related advisories rather than a clear deterioration trend. While some issues, such as tyre wear approaching legal limits and minor oil leaks, have persisted, the absence of major failures or repeated dangerous conditions suggests that the vehicle’s fundamental roadworthiness remains intact. The advisories are largely non-critical but indicate ongoing wear that should be monitored, particularly in suspension components and braking systems, where slight play in ball joints and fluctuating rear service brakes have been noted. The fact that the vehicle passed its latest MOT despite these advisories implies that the defects are either not severe enough to fail the test or have been mitigated by recent maintenance, but proactive attention is still advised. The recorded mileage of 100,350 miles for a 13-year-old Qashqai reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,719 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this vehicle’s age and class. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a car that has been used regularly but not excessively, especially if it has been parked for extended periods without driving. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests that the vehicle has been in use, which can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluids. However, the consistent advisories on tyre wear and minor leaks indicate that the vehicle has not been driven at a pace that would have exacerbated these issues beyond what is typical for its age. The key takeaway is that while the mileage is not exceptionally high, the wear patterns suggest that the vehicle has experienced some exposure to road conditions, particularly in the suspension and braking systems. Given the recurring advisories on tyre wear and suspension components, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s mechanical condition before purchase. First and foremost, the front and rear tyres should be checked for signs of cord exposure, which is a critical risk if the wear advisories are taken seriously. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, particularly clunks or rattles that could indicate worn suspension bushes, debonded rear arm bushes, or binding ball joints. The rear service brake fluctuating advisory suggests potential issues with brake disc corrosion or uneven wear, which may cause a shuddering sensation when braking or a spongy pedal feel. Additionally, the minor oil leaks should be addressed promptly to prevent further contamination of the engine oil or damage to seals. The buyer should also verify that the brake pipe connection is secure and that no further leaks are present, as the previous MOT noted a major failure in this area. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also perform a comprehensive physical and functional check beyond the MOT advisories. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to age-related degradation. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around terminals or poor electrical connections, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or failure. The exhaust system should be examined for signs of rust or structural integrity, particularly around the near-side rear exhaust, where a minor leak was noted. Fluid levels should be topped up to manufacturer specifications, with particular attention given to brake fluid, which can degrade over time even if not used frequently. Lastly, verify that the service book records are up to date, especially for fluid changes and timing belt replacements, as the Qashqai’s engine may require a timing belt service at around 100,000–120,000 miles or every five years, whichever comes first. A thorough inspection of the suspension for alignment and alignment service history is also recommended, as the advisories on suspension arm bushes and ball joints indicate potential misalignment or wear that could worsen with continued use.