2021 Nissan Leaf Electric · DN71 VCM

The most recent DVSA examination dated 3 June 2026 resulted in a Pass, although four advisory items were recorded, all of which warrant attention prior to purchase. The maintenance trend across the recorded MOT history suggests a stable but progressively deteriorating condition at the front axle, particularly concerning the braking system. The 2024 test recorded front inner brake disc wear, the 2025 test noted an additional advisory regarding pitted and scored front brake discs alongside a major failure for headlamp aim, and the 2026 test again highlighted front brake disc wear. While none of these defects have yet caused a failure, the repetition indicates that the front braking components are approaching a point at which further deterioration could reasonably be expected. The nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit and the offside front tyre worn on edge are likewise significant, as they suggest an impending replacement requirement that will affect running costs and roadholding. With 50,516 miles recorded over approximately five years, the vehicle has accumulated around 10,100 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of its age and suggests consistent, regular use rather than prolonged periods of standing. This usage profile is mechanically favourable for an electric vehicle such as the Nissan Leaf, as regular driving tends to preserve battery health, brake component functionality, and prevent issues associated with prolonged immobility. The mileage progression between MOT tests appears steady, with no obvious extended gaps in use, which reduces the likelihood of degradation from standing such as brake disc corrosion from inactivity, deteriorated tyre sidewalls, or twelve-volt auxiliary battery failure. However, prospective buyers should still verify the state of charge and range capability of the high-voltage traction battery, as this remains a primary concern for any used electric vehicle regardless of MOT records. The recurring advisories regarding front brake disc wear, pitting, and scoring carry mechanical significance and warrant close physical inspection. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder, vibration through the steering wheel, or grinding noises under braking, and check for uneven tyre wear particularly on the nearside front, which can be symptomatic of binding calipers or warped discs. The disc surface condition should be examined for deep grooves or excessive lipping at the perimeter, and the caliper slide pins and pistons should be free of seizure. The nearside front tyre advisory suggests immediate replacement will likely be required, and both front tyres should be inspected for even wear across the tread, as edge wear may indicate incorrect wheel alignment or suspension geometry issues. Additionally, verify the condition of the rear tyres, as the advisory was specific to the front pair, and confirm the nearside rear adult seatbelt is fully accessible and functional, as the child seat fitted at the time of test prevented full inspection. Beyond the recorded MOT advisories, several age and mileage appropriate checks remain relevant. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with adequate tread depth on vehicles of this age, and confirm the manufacturing date code on each tyre to ensure they fall within a reasonable service life. Examine the high-voltage traction battery state of health through a diagnostic tool or dealer readout, as this is the single most critical component on the Leaf and any significant degradation will substantially affect the vehicle's value and usability. Check the twelve-volt auxiliary battery condition, as failures are common on EVs of this age and can cause drivability and warning light issues. Finally, although this vehicle has seen regular use, verify that brake fluid has been changed in accordance with calendar-based servicing intervals, typically every two years regardless of mileage, as fluid degrades hygroscopically over time and can compromise braking performance.