2023 Nissan Townstar Tekna EV Electric · SC17 ABC

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 4 August 2026 resulted in a pass, confirming the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements on that date. However, three advisory items were issued which, while not immediate failures, collectively point to wear developing in the front steering and suspension area as well as at the rear brake mechanism. Given that this is the first recorded MOT for a 2023 three-year-old vehicle, there is no comparative prior test data from which to gauge improvement or deterioration; nevertheless, the nature of these advisories suggests components that are at the early-to-mid stage of wear and warrant close attention during any pre-purchase inspection. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable in the short term but merits monitoring of these flagged systems as mileage continues to accumulate. With 27,963 miles recorded over approximately three years, the vehicle has averaged around 9,321 miles per year, which is broadly consistent with typical usage for a small electric commercial-derived MPV. There are no apparent gaps or sudden spikes in the mileage, and no evidence of long periods of standing, which is beneficial given that electric vehicles left idle for extended periods can suffer from 12V auxiliary battery degradation, brake disc corrosion from lack of use, and potential concerns with the high-voltage traction battery state of charge management. The mileage level is relatively modest and should not have caused undue wear on drivetrain components, though consumable items such as tyres, brake friction material, and suspension components will still be subject to normal service life progression. The advisory concerning play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint is a notable point, as steering rack inner joints are sealed assemblies and replacement typically necessitates a reconditioned or new rack, which can be a moderately expensive repair. On a test drive, a buyer should listen for any knocking or clunking from the front end, particularly when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or during full-lock low-speed manoeuvres where steering loads are highest. The offside front suspension arm ball joint showing slight play is a related front-end wear item; symptoms to watch for include vague or imprecise steering response, uneven front tyre wear (particularly inner-edge wear on the affected side), and any creaking or groaning over undulations. Both advisories are interconnected in suggesting the front suspension and steering assemblies have begun to develop wear, and a thorough inspection on a ramp or with the wheels lifted would be prudent to assess whether any imminent replacement is required within the next service interval. The rear service brake binding advisory indicates that the rear brake caliper mechanism, or possibly the electronic parking brake actuator, is not fully releasing after application, leading to residual friction and potential overheating. On a test drive, this can manifest as a dragging sensation, a slight pulling tendency, reduced electric range due to parasitic drag, and potentially hot rear wheels after a drive. The binding should be inspected to determine whether it is a simple sticking slider pin, a seized caliper piston, or a fault within the electric parking brake system. Beyond these advisories, given the vehicle's age and electric powertrain, a prospective buyer should also verify the condition of the high-voltage battery state of health, check the 12V auxiliary battery (a common failure point on EVs), inspect tyres for age-related sidewall cracking as well as tread depth, and confirm that brake fluid has been changed at the manufacturer-recommended intervals regardless of mileage, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades with time. Service history should be reviewed to ensure that the single-speed reduction gearbox oil, coolant systems, and cabin filter have been maintained in line with Nissan schedule.