2017 Nissan Leaf Electric · ML17 WBZ

A 2017 Nissan Leaf presenting a MOT history dominated by administrative test entries rather than mechanical defects is generally a positive signal for roadworthiness, though the unusual pattern of tests warrants a closer look at how the vehicle was managed. The most recent test on 4 March 2026 returned a pass with no defects recorded, matching the outcome of an earlier pass on 6 March 2024. Sandwiched between these clean results are two failed tests in February 2025 and February 2026, both recorded with no defects. Because the DVSA system logs a failure entry whenever a test is conducted but defects are not subsequently recorded or the test was aborted before completion, these entries are likely the result of aborted tests or retest arrangements rather than genuine mechanical failures. The absence of any recorded advisories across the entire history means no brake wear, suspension component deterioration, corrosion, tyre condition, or lighting defects have been flagged by testers, indicating the car has either been lightly used between tests or has had components replaced prior to each assessment. With 76,653 miles accumulated over approximately nine years, this Leaf has covered around 8,500 miles annually, a rate that sits firmly within the typical bracket for a vehicle of its age. There are no large multi-year gaps in the MOT record that would suggest extended periods off the road, which is relevant given that the Leaf's lithium-ion traction battery can degrade more noticeably when left sitting at high states of charge or exposed to extreme temperatures without regular cycling. The annual mileage is modest enough that traditional mechanical consumables such as brake discs, pads, and suspension bushes should not be approaching the wear limits typically associated with high-mileage vehicles. Equally, the consistent testing pattern confirms the vehicle has remained in regular use and on the road throughout the period covered by the records, reducing concerns around seized calipers, perished rubber components, or flat-spotted tyres that often accompany prolonged storage. From a buyer's perspective, the lack of advisory data means any pre-purchase judgement must rely heavily on a physical inspection rather than historical test evidence. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the regenerative braking feel and conventional brake response, as Leafs rely heavily on regen and the hydraulic friction brakes can corrode or seize from underuse despite low mileage. Listen for any clonks or knocking from the front MacPherson strut suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn top mounts, drop links, or anti-roll bar bushes that have not been recorded in the MOT file. The steering should be checked for vagueness or clonking through full lock, both signs of degraded column or rack components. The electric drivetrain itself requires specific checks beyond standard mechanical inspection. Verify the dashboard State of Health display if accessible, or request a LeafSpy diagnostic read-out to confirm individual cell voltages and the traction battery's degradation percentage, as this is the single largest cost-of-ownership risk for any used Leaf and is completely invisible from MOT history. Inspect the charging port and cable for signs of thermal damage or wear, and confirm both AC fast charging and rapid charging function as expected. Underneath, examine the underside of the battery pack for impact damage or fluid ingress, and check the rear suspension torsion beam and surrounding bodywork for corrosion, an area that historically affects earlier Leaf models and would warrant particular scrutiny given the absence of any corrosion advisories in the MOT record.