Motoring Today

Nissan X-Trail MOT reliability

Reliability from 8 Nissan X-Trail 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 X-Trail at MOT?

Across 4 Nissan X-Trail cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 84%. 75% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 2 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are brakes, tyres and lighting & electrical, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
84%
Valid MOT
3 / 4
Median MOT left
2 mo
Top failure
Brakes

There are 4 Nissan X-Trail models currently available on Motoring Today, with prices starting from £6995 or a representative £161 per month. Drawing from 94,443 real UK MOT tests, the Nissan X-Trail has a national DVSA MOT pass rate of 74.94%. This figure, while reflecting cars presented for test rather than lifetime reliability, offers insight into common maintenance areas. It's important to remember that MOT pass rates can cluster with a vehicle's age and how well it has been maintained, rather than being solely indicative of the badge itself. The most frequent reasons for an X-Trail failing its MOT are predominantly related to the suspension, accounting for 32% of all failures. Brakes follow, making up 25% of failures, with lighting and electrical issues at 19%, and tyres at 9%. For a used car buyer, significant suspension failures often mean worn components like shock absorbers, springs, or bushes, which can affect handling, comfort, and safety. Brake failures typically point to worn pads, discs, or issues with the braking system's hydraulics. When considering a used Nissan X-Trail, it is advisable to pay close attention to these areas. Listen for unusual noises over bumps (suspension), check for uneven tyre wear, and ensure the brakes feel firm and responsive without pulling to one side. A thorough inspection of all lights and electrical systems is also prudent. While an MOT pass rate isn't a guarantee of future reliability, understanding these common failure points empowers buyers to make more informed checks before purchase.

84First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
3 / 4
75% road-ready
Median MOT left
2 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
1
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Nissan X-Trail

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 8 Nissan X-Trail cars with DVSA test history in our stock (23 recorded failure items, 8 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Brakes522%
Tyres417%
Lighting & electrical313%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)313%
Other313%
Suspension29%

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 X-Trail 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 X-Trail?
Based on real national DVSA MOT tests, the Nissan X-Trail has a pass rate of 74.94%. This figure is derived from 94443 MOT tests.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Nissan X-Trail?
The most frequent MOT failures for the Nissan X-Trail are Suspension (32% of failures), Brakes (25%), Lighting & electrical (19%), and Tyres (9%).
Is the Nissan X-Trail reliable?
An MOT pass rate of 74.94% reflects vehicles presented for testing, not lifetime reliability. Failures tend to increase with vehicle age and neglect, so this figure should be considered in that context.
What should I check before buying a used Nissan X-Trail?
Before purchasing a used Nissan X-Trail, pay close attention to the suspension, brakes, and all lighting and electrical components, as these are the most common areas for MOT failures.
How many Nissan X-Trail cars are currently for sale and what is the cheapest price?
As of 3 August 2026, there are 4 Nissan X-Trail cars for sale, with the cheapest available from £6995 or from £161 per month (representative example, finance subject to status).
What are the most common MOT failures on the Nissan X-Trail?
Across 8 Nissan X-Trail cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are brakes, tyres and lighting & electrical (brakes account for 22% of recorded failures).

More Nissan X-Trail resources