2017 Nissan Leaf Electric · LY67 AAE

The latest MOT test on the 2017 Nissan Leaf, conducted on 2025-07-31, resulted in a passing grade with several recurring advisories that indicate a pattern of moderate wear and potential areas requiring closer attention. While the vehicle has passed each MOT since 2022, the consistent presence of front brake disc wear, pitted or scored surfaces that are not critically compromised, and suspension arm bush wear on both sides suggest a maintenance trend that has not significantly improved or worsened over time. These advisories do not currently affect roadworthiness, but their persistence implies that the vehicle has experienced sustained operational stresses, particularly in braking and suspension systems, which may warrant proactive servicing to prevent cumulative damage. The tyre-related advisories, such as nearside rear tyre perishing and nearside front tyre wear close to legal limits, further reinforce the need for vigilance, as these conditions can escalate if left unaddressed. The recorded mileage of 124,110 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 13,790 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) of this vintage. Such mileage accumulation typically indicates heavier operational demands, potentially due to frequent driving, particularly in mixed or high-performance driving conditions that can accelerate wear on components like brakes, suspension, and tyres. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests suggests consistent use, which may have contributed to the observed wear patterns, particularly in the front suspension and braking systems. However, it is worth noting that electric vehicles, while efficient, can still experience accelerated wear in certain areas, such as the regenerative braking system and electrical components, which may not always be reflected in traditional mechanical wear metrics. For the prospective buyer, the advisories on the front brake discs and suspension arm bushes warrant immediate inspection. The brake discs should be visually examined for further pitting or scoring, and their thickness measured to ensure they remain above the legal minimum. Listen for any unusual braking noises, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate deeper disc wear or warping. During a test drive, check for a firm but even brake pedal travel, and ensure there is no vibration or pulsation that might suggest warped discs or binding calipers. The suspension advisories suggest that the inner suspension arms may have excessive movement, which could lead to further wear on bushings or even arm failure if ignored. Inspect the suspension for excessive play, clunks when driving over bumps, or uneven ride height, which could indicate worn or damaged components. Addressing these issues promptly will help mitigate the risk of more costly repairs down the line. In addition to the mechanical checks, the tyres present a critical area of concern. The nearside rear tyre shows signs of perishing, which can compromise grip and safety, especially in wet or adverse conditions. Replace this tyre immediately to prevent a failure that could lead to an accident. The nearside front tyre is worn close to the legal limit, and the cut on the nearside front outer tyre should be addressed to prevent further damage to the tread structure. Ensure all tyres meet the minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm and check for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Beyond the tyres, given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, the battery health should be thoroughly assessed. The Nissan Leaf’s battery system is critical to performance and safety, and any signs of degradation, such as reduced range or unusual behaviour, should prompt a professional inspection. Finally, while the MOT history is clean aside from the advisories, consider a comprehensive service check, including fluid levels (brake, coolant, power steering), electrical connections, and a review of the service book for any missed maintenance. Given the vehicle’s age, time-based fluid servicing—such as brake fluid flushes every two years—should be prioritised to prevent corrosion and loss of hydraulic efficiency.