2022 Nissan Leaf Electric · SL72 YNF

The defining mechanical story for this 2022 Nissan Leaf is the absence of recorded advisories across its MOT history, paired with a single tyre-related failure that was resolved within the same testing window. The only recorded entry prior to a pass was a fail dated 20 September 2025 for an offside front tyre with a cut deep enough to reach the ply or cords, classified as a major defect. A subsequent test two days later, on 22 September 2025, returned a pass with no defects recorded, indicating the tyre was replaced and the vehicle presented cleanly thereafter. The overall record is therefore extremely thin: one fail, one pass, and no advisory notes. While the absence of advisories is a neutral fact rather than evidence of mechanical soundness, the lack of recurring component flags is a starting point that warrants closer physical scrutiny. Annual mileage is exceptionally low, with just 9,799 miles recorded over the four-year life of the vehicle, equating to roughly 2,450 miles per year. This level of accumulation is well below the typical usage profile for a commuter-class electric vehicle of this age and means the Leaf has likely spent extended periods stationary between short journeys. Electric powertrains tolerate low usage well in terms of engine and transmission wear, given there is no combustion engine or conventional gearbox, but light use has its own mechanical implications. Brake discs and pads can suffer from surface corrosion and binding calipers due to infrequent operation, tyre sidewalls and tread compounds can degrade with age rather than wear, and suspension components, bushes, and rubber boots can deteriorate through lack of regular movement. The single recorded MOT test in the vehicle's history is also worth noting: a car registered in 2022 would not have required an MOT until 2025, so the data covers only the most recent test, and the mileage history of any vehicle on a used forecourt should be cross-checked against the V5C and service records for any inconsistency. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority is a physical inspection of the offside front tyre and wheel, given the recorded cut. Verify that the replacement tyre is of the correct size, load index, and speed rating for the Leaf, and inspect the alloy wheel for kerb damage that may have contributed to the original cut. Given the low annual mileage, all four tyres should be examined for age-related sidewall cracking, uneven wear patterns, and tread depth, as tyres fitted from new will be approaching four years old regardless of remaining tread. On the test drive, pay particular attention to brake feel, as light use increases the likelihood of seized calipers or corroded discs producing judder, pulling, or an excessively long pedal travel under moderate application. Listen for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, and check for free play in the steering. Underbonnet and underbody checks are equally important given the low usage. Inspect the underside of the vehicle, including the subframe, suspension arms, and brake lines, for any corrosion given the autumn 2025 test date. Confirm the 12V auxiliary battery, which is separate from the traction pack and particularly vulnerable to sulphation during long standing periods, is recent and holds a charge. Verify the charging port and cable for any damage, and ask for evidence of the traction battery state of health, as Leaf battery degradation is well documented and not assessable from MOT data alone. Finally, insist on a pre-purchase inspection at a specialist familiar with electric vehicles, given that MOT testing does not evaluate the high-voltage system, battery cells, or electric drive components at all.