2008 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · XM03 SAY

A chronic pattern of suspension and underbody wear dominates the MOT history of this 2008 Nissan Qashqai, with advisories reappearing year after year and a recent dangerous brake defect recorded. The most recent test on 2 December 2025 returned a pass, but only two weeks earlier on 17 November 2025 the vehicle failed outright due to rear brake pads measuring less than 1.5 mm thick on both sides, a dangerous category defect. That same inspection also flagged non-functioning front position lamps on both sides as a major failure, alongside the same brake disc, coil spring, and subframe advisories that had been noted on the previous pass. Across the 2024 cycle the vehicle also failed on 21 November for a non-working horn, an inoperative nearside front position lamp, and an ineffective windscreen washer, before passing the following day with the same suspension advisories carrying over. The overall trend is one of stable but persistently compromised structural and braking condition, with rear coil spring corrosion recorded on three consecutive annual tests and front subframe bushes flagged in every MOT since at least 2023. With 125,196 miles recorded over roughly 18 years, this Qashqai has averaged around 6,950 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and indicates regular rather than dormant use. The mileage coverage across the MOT record is consistent, with no extended gaps between tests that would suggest the vehicle was laid up or off the road for significant periods. At this annual accumulation, wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, brake discs, and underbody components is expected to accumulate progressively, which aligns with the recurring advisories on the rear springs and front subframe mountings. Although the mileage itself is unremarkable, the combination of age and sustained use on what is now a mature platform means that components originally fitted when the car was new have almost certainly been replaced multiple times, while structural elements such as subframes and spring seats remain subject to corrosion. For a prospective buyer, the rear coil spring corrosion advisories from three consecutive tests warrant close physical inspection of the spring seats and surrounding bodywork for visible rust perforation, particularly on the nearside and offside rear turrets. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over speed bumps, which can indicate the springs have weakened or snapped a coil. The front subframe pin bush advisories, also recurring across multiple tests, should prompt a check for vague or wandering steering response, uneven tyre wear across the front axle, and any knocking felt through the steering wheel when traversing uneven surfaces. A borescope or visual inspection underneath should confirm whether the subframe mounting points remain structurally sound, as corrosion in this area can escalate quickly on higher-mileage Qashqais of this generation. The braking system history demands particular attention given the dangerous pad wear recorded in November 2025. On a test drive, expect firm, progressive pedal response without excessive travel, and listen for any grinding or scraping sounds from the rear wheels which would indicate the new pads are bedding in incorrectly or that caliper sliders have seized. The previously scored and pitted rear brake discs, now likely replaced, should be inspected for run-out or judder under braking, particularly at low speed. Additionally, verify that both front position lamps, the horn, and the windscreen washer all function correctly, as the 2024 failure cluster shows these items have been intermittent concerns. Given the age and the recurring structural advisories, an independent pre-purchase inspection with the vehicle raised on a ramp is advisable to assess subframe integrity and any underlying corrosion not visible from the MOT record alone.