2023 Cupra Born V3 EV Electricity · LL23 NHX

The most recent DVSA examination dated 8 July 2026 resulted in a Pass, with no advisories or defects recorded against the vehicle. This represents a satisfactory current roadworthiness position, although it should be noted that an advisory-free pass at this early stage of the vehicle's life is broadly expected for a three-year-old electric vehicle that has covered modest mileage. The single failure entry dated the same day relates to a Major defect concerning the offside rear tyre not being fitted in accordance with side wall instructions, specifically under Section 5.2.3 (i) of the inspection manual. As this failure occurred on the same date as the pass, it strongly suggests the advisory-free pass was achieved only after the offending tyre issue was rectified prior to re-test, or alternatively that the defect was addressed during the same inspection visit. There is no historical MOT data prior to this entry, so a long-term maintenance trend cannot be fully established, though the clean current status is reassuring. The recorded mileage of 12,212 miles over an approximate three-year ownership period equates to an annual usage rate of around 4,071 miles, which is considerably below the national average for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage typically indicates a pattern of light, predominantly urban or short-journey use, which can be either beneficial or problematic depending on how the vehicle has been stored and operated. While low-mileage examples generally suffer less wear on drivetrain components, brake friction material and suspension items, they are more susceptible to age-related degradation in components that suffer from prolonged standing. The absence of earlier MOT test records means any pre-2026 maintenance history is not visible, and the buyer should verify whether the vehicle has been subject to standing periods, which can accelerate certain forms of deterioration. For a 2023 CUPRA Born of this age and usage profile, several physical checks are recommended irrespective of the clean MOT result. The 12-volt auxiliary battery, which supports ancillary systems on this electric platform, can suffer premature failure when the vehicle is left unused for extended periods, so its state of charge and date code should be verified. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected for perishing or cracking, as low-mileage tyres can deteriorate from age rather than wear; the previous failure suggests careful attention to fitting direction and manufacturer specifications, particularly where asymmetric or directional patterns are concerned. Brake discs and calipers should be examined for corrosion, binding or seizure, as standing periods combined with the regenerative braking characteristic of an EV can lead to rear brake caliper sluggishness and disc pitting from surface corrosion. The coolant system for the battery and motor, brake fluid, and any reduction gearbox lubricant all have calendar-based replacement intervals and should be checked against manufacturer service schedules, as time-based degradation will occur regardless of mileage covered. On a test drive, the prospective buyer should remain attentive to symptoms consistent with the issues outlined above. Listen for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes or top mount deterioration, and pay attention to steering precision and response, as standing-related tyre flat spotting can produce vibration through the steering wheel at speed. Confirm that the regenerative braking system functions smoothly and that the friction brakes respond promptly when required, as sticking calipers will manifest as uneven pulling or dragging. The high-voltage battery state of health should be verified through the onboard diagnostic menu or a CUPRA main dealer readout, ensuring that usable capacity remains consistent with the vehicle's age and mileage. Finally, ensure the vehicle is supplied with a complete service history including any digital records, as EV-specific items such as battery management software updates, charging system inspections, and brake fluid changes may not be recorded in traditional paper service books but are essential to long-term reliability and warranty standing.