2008 Nissan Qashqai 1.6L Petrol · YA08 ATY

The most recent MOT inspection dated 8 June 2026 resulted in a pass, although the vehicle was previously failed on the same date due to a Supplementary Restraint System warning lamp indicating a fault, classified as a Presenter Rectified at Site failure, meaning the issue was addressed during the test appointment, likely by clearing the fault code or rectifying an airbag system sensor. A minor defect was also recorded for an inoperative registration plate lamp among multiple lamps, which is a straightforward electrical fix. The advisories accompanying this test include a nearside front suspension arm pin or bush showing wear, rear brake disc wear not yet excessive, rear brake pads wearing thin, and rear suspension component mounting prescribed area corrosion assessed as not excessive. The overall maintenance trend shows the vehicle is being kept on the road through annual testing with a consistent pattern of addressing wear items, though the recurring supplementary restraint system warning lamp across both 2025 and 2026, the repeated rear brake disc and pad advisories spanning four consecutive tests, and the persistent rear suspension corrosion advisories suggest a vehicle requiring ongoing attention to safety-critical systems rather than one in peak mechanical condition. The recorded mileage of 135,498 miles over approximately eighteen years equates to an annual average of around 7,528 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. The MOT history demonstrates consistent annual testing and progressive mileage accumulation without any notable extended gaps in use, meaning the vehicle has not been subjected to the particular risks associated with prolonged standing such as severe brake disc corrosion, fluid degradation through lack of circulation, or seized calipers. However, the mileage itself places this Qashqai firmly in high-wear territory for its component groups, particularly suspension, drivetrain, and braking systems, and the cumulative effect of 135,000 miles of typical road use will have taken its toll on items such as engine mounts, clutch wear if manual, timing chain stretch if applicable, and general driveline refinement. The relatively steady annual mileage suggests regular if modest use, which is generally favourable for preventing the worst standing-related deterioration but does mean mechanical consumables have been worked hard. For a prospective buyer, the repeated rear brake disc and pad advisories across four consecutive MOT tests warrant close physical inspection. The rear brake pads were flagged as dangerously thin in 2024 and have continued to receive advisories for wearing thin through to 2026, meaning replacement has almost certainly been carried out at some point but ongoing attention is required. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder through the pedal or steering wheel under firm stopping, which would indicate disc runout or uneven wear, and inspect the rear discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge suggesting further wear. The nearside front suspension arm pin or bush wear noted in the latest test should be evaluated by physically rocking the wheel at top and bottom to detect excess play, and any clonking or knocking over speed bumps or rough surfaces would confirm progression. Given the persistent rear suspension component corrosion advisories over multiple years, the underside of the vehicle should be thoroughly inspected, ideally on a ramp, paying particular attention to rear beam axle mounting points, subframe integrity, and brake line condition, as corrosion in these prescribed areas can escalate from advisory to failure if left unchecked. Beyond the documented history, age-appropriate checks are essential for an eighteen year old vehicle regardless of MOT outcome. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking and perishing from age, as rubber degrades through time even with adequate tread depth, and the vehicle history of front tyres wearing close to the legal limit and on the edges suggests possible alignment or suspension geometry issues worth investigating with a geometry check. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance and state of health, particularly given a minor advisory of an insecure battery on its mounting in 2025, as batteries beyond five years of age are prone to cold weather failure. All fluid services should be verified against time rather than mileage alone, including engine oil and filter, brake fluid which degrades hygroscopically and should typically be renewed biennially, coolant which loses corrosion protection over time, and transmission fluid. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp recurring across two consecutive years should be professionally diagnosed with a compatible scan tool to confirm whether the underlying fault relates to a faulty airbag squib, seat occupancy mat, or wiring loom connector, as unresolved airbag faults present both a safety and compliance concern. Finally, verify a continuous service book stamp history, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the joints and mounting rubber condition, and check for any oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or sump area which are common on high mileage Nissan units of this era.