Motoring Today

Nissan Qashqai MOT reliability

Reliability from 70 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 21 Nissan Qashqai cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 64%. 76% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 8 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
64%
Valid MOT
16 / 21
Median MOT left
8 mo
Top failure
Suspension

The Nissan Qashqai, with 16 examples currently available on Motoring Today, demonstrates a national DVSA MOT pass rate of 75.33% based on a substantial 553,461 real UK tests. This figure provides a useful snapshot of the model's performance when presented for its annual inspection. While this pass rate is drawn from official data, it's crucial to understand that it reflects vehicles as they are tested, not their inherent lifetime reliability. Failures often cluster with a car's age, mileage, and how well it has been maintained, rather than the badge itself. The most common reasons for a Qashqai failing its MOT predominantly involve 'Lighting & electrical' and 'Suspension', both accounting for 27% of all failure categories. 'Brakes' follow closely at 19%, then 'Tyres' at 11%, and 'Steering' at 9%. For a used car buyer, these statistics highlight critical areas to inspect. Issues with lighting and electrical systems can range from blown bulbs to more complex wiring faults, which may impact visibility and safety. Suspension failures often point to worn components like shock absorbers or bushes, affecting ride comfort and handling. Therefore, before purchasing a used Nissan Qashqai, pay particular attention to all lights and warning indicators, and check for any unusual noises or vibrations from the suspension, especially over bumps. Examine the tyres for adequate tread depth and even wear, and ensure the brakes feel firm and responsive without pulling to one side. The cheapest Nissan Qashqai on Motoring Today is £5,495, or from a representative monthly payment of £130. Finance is subject to status.

64First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
16 / 21
76% road-ready
Median MOT left
8 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
4
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Nissan Qashqai

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 70 Nissan Qashqai cars with DVSA test history in our stock (105 recorded failure items, 25 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Suspension3331%
Tyres2120%
Brakes2019%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)1312%
Lighting & electrical66%
Emissions & exhaust44%

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 553,461 real national DVSA MOT tests, the Nissan Qashqai has an average pass rate of 75.33%.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Nissan Qashqai?
The top failure categories are Lighting & electrical (27%), Suspension (27%), Brakes (19%), Tyres (11%), and Steering (9%).
Is the Nissan Qashqai reliable?
While MOT pass rates offer a snapshot of a car's condition when tested, they don't reflect lifetime reliability. Failures often increase with a car's age and can indicate neglect rather than inherent unreliability.
What should I check before buying a used Nissan Qashqai?
Focus on common failure points during your inspection, such as checking all lights, the condition of suspension components, brake wear, tyre tread depth and condition, and steering responsiveness.
How many used Nissan Qashqai models are currently for sale and what's the cheapest price?
As of 5 October 2026, there are 22 used Nissan Qashqai models available for sale. The cheapest model is priced at £5480, or from £130 per month (representative example, finance subject to status).
What are the most common MOT failures on the Nissan Qashqai?
Across 70 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 31% of recorded failures).

More Nissan Qashqai resources