Motoring Today

Nissan Qashqai MOT reliability

Reliability from 45 Nissan Qashqai cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons, and how much MOT life is left.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Nissan Qashqai at MOT?

Across 16 Nissan Qashqai cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 71%. 81% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 6 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are suspension, tyres and brakes, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
71%
Valid MOT
13 / 16
Median MOT left
6 mo
Top failure
Suspension

The Nissan Qashqai shows a national DVSA MOT pass rate of 75.33% across 553,461 tests. This figure reflects the condition of vehicles presented for testing and not necessarily their lifetime reliability, as failures tend to cluster with a car's age and maintenance rather than the badge itself. Motoring Today currently lists 14 used Qashqai models available, with prices starting from £5,995, or a representative monthly finance example of £135. The most common failure categories for the Qashqai, accounting for a significant proportion of issues, are Lighting & electrical (27%) and Suspension (27%), followed by Brakes (19%), Tyres (11%), and Steering (9%). For a used car buyer, this means a thorough inspection of all lights, indicators, and wiring connections is crucial. Likewise, checking the suspension for excessive bounce, creaks, or uneven ride height could flag potential issues. When considering a used Nissan Qashqai, pay close attention to the condition of brake discs and pads, tyre tread depth and signs of uneven wear, and ensure the steering feels precise with no excessive play or unusual noises. While the MOT pass rate provides an insight into common issues, remember that the individual car's history, as detailed in its full MOT history on Motoring Today, will offer the most valuable information.

71First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
13 / 16
81% road-ready
Median MOT left
6 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
2
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Nissan Qashqai

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 45 Nissan Qashqai cars with DVSA test history in our stock (58 recorded failure items, 13 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Suspension2034%
Tyres1526%
Brakes814%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)47%
Emissions & exhaust47%
Steering35%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Nissan Qashqai cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Nissan Qashqai?
Based on national DVSA MOT test data, the Nissan Qashqai has an overall MOT pass rate of 75.33%. This figure is derived from 553,461 MOT tests conducted across the UK.
What are the most common MOT failures for a Nissan Qashqai?
The most frequent MOT failure categories for the Nissan Qashqai are Lighting & electrical (27%), Suspension (27%), Brakes (19%), Tyres (11%), and Steering (9%).
Is the Nissan Qashqai a reliable car?
While the MOT pass rate provides an indication of roadworthiness at the time of test, it doesn't represent lifetime reliability. Failures typically become more common with a vehicle's age and can be influenced by maintenance and usage.
What should I check before buying a used Nissan Qashqai?
When inspecting a used Nissan Qashqai, pay close attention to the lighting and electrical systems, the condition of the suspension, the braking components, tyre wear, and any signs of wear in the steering system, as these are common MOT failure points.
How many Nissan Qashqais are for sale now and what is the cheapest price?
There are 10 Nissan Qashqais currently for sale. The cheapest available model is priced at £4995, or £132 per month as a representative example; finance is subject to status. (Data updated 3 August 2026)
What are the most common MOT failures on the Nissan Qashqai?
Across 45 Nissan Qashqai cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are suspension, tyres and brakes (suspension account for 34% of recorded failures).

More Nissan Qashqai resources