2014 Nissan Leaf Electric · LL64 FFS

The most recent MOT test on the 2014 Nissan Leaf, conducted on 2025-11-18, resulted in a pass with a single advisory concerning the nearside rear coil spring exhibiting corrosion at its lower end. This follows a consistent pattern of recurring advisories related to rear coil spring corrosion across all MOT tests from 2022 onward, indicating a persistent but not critical issue that has not progressed to failure. The vehicle’s overall maintenance history shows stability, with no major failures beyond the noted suspension and parking brake issues in 2023, which were rectified and subsequently passed in subsequent tests. The absence of repeated major defects or critical advisories suggests that while the coil springs require monitoring, the vehicle remains roadworthy with no immediate safety concerns beyond routine wear items. The recorded mileage of 124,778 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 10,398 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage patterns for this model. This level of mileage is consistent with moderate to heavy use, particularly if the vehicle has been in regular service, as the 12-year period spans multiple ownership changes and potential seasonal storage. Higher mileage tends to accelerate wear on consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and fluids, while lower mileage might suggest periods of inactivity that can lead to standing corrosion or fluid degradation. Given the history of coil spring corrosion advisories, the vehicle’s usage profile may have contributed to this wear, though the lack of further failures suggests the corrosion has not yet reached a point of structural compromise. For prospective buyers, the Nissan Leaf’s MOT record necessitates a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear coil springs, which show clear signs of corrosion. Visually inspect the springs for any signs of further deterioration, such as cracks or deformation, and listen for unusual noises during a test drive, including clunks or rattles that could indicate loose suspension components or binding calipers. The major failure in 2023—an excessively worn front suspension ball joint—serves as a warning that the vehicle’s suspension may be approaching the end of its serviceable life, and parts like ball joints, bushings, and control arms should be checked for similar wear. Additionally, verify the parking brake system, as the 2023 failure highlights the need for functional testing, especially if the vehicle has been used for towing or heavy loads. Beyond the suspension, the brake discs show mild pitting and wear but are not critically weakened, so no immediate action is required. However, the buyer should inspect the brake discs and pads for even wear and listen for grinding noises, which could indicate impending failure. The front windscreen wiper blades, though defective, do not affect roadworthiness, but replacing them is advisable for visibility and comfort. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is prudent to check the tyre tread depth for adequate grip and inspect the sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity. The battery, being an electric vehicle, should be tested for charge retention and physical condition, as older batteries may struggle with performance or fail unexpectedly. Lastly, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider checking the fluid levels—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—due to their susceptibility to degradation over time, especially if the vehicle has been stored or used intermittently.