2018 Nissan Leaf Electric · LP67 CYL

The most recent MOT inspection on 21 January 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, indicating the vehicle was in a roadworthy condition at that time. Looking at the broader maintenance history, the trend is stable and shows signs of improvement. The single failure in early 2023 related to windscreen wiper effectiveness was a minor consumable issue, and the subsequent clean passes suggest that the vehicle is being kept in good order. The absence of structural or significant mechanical defects in the most recent tests is a positive indicator of the vehicle's overall upkeep. With a recorded mileage of 44,404 miles over approximately eight years, this Nissan Leaf has averaged roughly 5,550 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK average for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has been used primarily for short trips or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the electric drivetrain, suspension components, and braking system, it can also lead to specific maintenance challenges. Low-use vehicles are more susceptible to age-related degradation of rubber components and the settling of fluids, which can be just as impactful as high-mileage wear. Given the advisory in January 2024 regarding tyre cracking and perishing on both rear tyres, you must physically inspect the current tread and sidewalls of all four tyres. Look specifically for fine cracks in the rubber, which indicate age-related perishing that can lead to sudden failure. During your test drive, pay close attention to any vibrations or uneven tyre wear that might suggest alignment issues or uneven pressure. Additionally, because the vehicle has seen low annual usage, you should check the health of the 12V auxiliary battery, as these can lose capacity when not regularly cycled. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, and listen for any binding or squealing during braking, which can occur when calipers are not frequently exercised. Finally, ensure that time-based maintenance has been observed rather than just mileage-based servicing. Check the service history for evidence of brake fluid changes and coolant replacements, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. Inspect the suspension bushes and coil springs for any signs of perished rubber or corrosion, as these can stiffen or crack during long periods of standing. A thorough check of the windscreen wiper blades and washer system is also advised to ensure the previous wiper failure has been fully resolved. Verifying that the service book contains regular stamps will provide much-needed confidence that the vehicle has been maintained according to manufacturer intervals despite its low mileage.