2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · YP61 WNO

The most recent MOT on 22 January 2026 was passed, recording only a minor fault with the off‑side registration plate lamp, an advisory on front brake disc condition and a deteriorated lower suspension arm dust cover. Over the preceding twelve months the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with major failures recorded for rear shock absorber leakage, front suspension ball‑joint wear and track‑rod play. While the latest pass indicates that the most serious defects have been addressed, the recurrence of front brake and suspension advisories shows the maintenance trend is stabilising but still requires attention to wear items that have not yet been rectified. At 142 483 miles the Qashqai averages roughly 9 500 miles per year, a usage pattern that sits comfortably within normal UK expectations for a fifteen‑year‑old vehicle. There are no evident mileage gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of storage, nor is there evidence of unusually high annual accumulation that would accelerate component fatigue. Consequently the wear observed on the suspension and braking systems aligns with the mileage recorded rather than being the result of excessive short‑term abuse. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front brake discs, which have been noted as pitted and scored on both sides. Inspect the discs for deep scoring, excessive run‑out and uneven thickness; a resurfaced or replaced disc should feel firm under the pad and should not produce a pulsating pedal or a high‑pitched squeal under moderate braking. The front suspension arm ball joints and the near‑side track‑rod end have previously exhibited excessive play; a thorough check for clunking or looseness when the steering wheel is rocked at a standstill, and for any wandering or vague feel at speed, is essential. The off‑side rear shock absorber was recorded with a serious fluid leak, so the rear ride should be examined for uneven bounce, leaking fluid on the tyre sidewalls and any reduction in damping when applying the brakes. The lower suspension arm dust cover on the near‑side is severely deteriorated, which can allow moisture ingress and accelerate corrosion of the ball joint – ensure the cover is intact or replaced and that the joint shows no play when the wheel is rocked vertically and laterally. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive visual and tactile inspection of time‑related items is advisable. Check all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot and uneven wear, especially the rear near‑side tyre that was previously close to the legal limit. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, looking for swelling, corrosion on terminals and a healthy cranking voltage. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and confirm that they have been changed at calendar intervals, as fluids degrade even when the car is not driven heavily. Inspect the under‑body for rust on the chassis rails, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, and ensure that any corrosion is superficial rather than structural. Finally, request a full service history, confirming that timing‑chain maintenance (if applicable) and regular oil changes have been performed, as these are critical to long‑term reliability on a vehicle of this vintage.