2017 Nissan Leaf 1.3L Electric · ST04 ALS

This 2017 Nissan Leaf presents an exceptionally clean DVSA roadworthiness record, with every test since 2022 returning a pass and not a single advisory or defect recorded across five separate examinations. The most recent assessment on 15 August 2025 confirmed a clean pass with no defects, continuing a streak of advisory-free outcomes that suggests the vehicle has not yet developed the wear-related issues commonly associated with its age bracket. The only anomaly in the record is a failed test on 7 August 2024, which was logged on the same date as a subsequent pass, indicating an immediate retest that was successfully cleared without any recorded defects. Mechanically, this pattern is the strongest possible signal from a roadworthiness perspective, implying that the suspension, braking, steering, lighting, and structural integrity items monitored under the MOT regime have all remained within serviceable limits. The recorded mileage of 41,790 miles over approximately nine years equates to an annual accumulation of around 4,643 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and considerably below the typical 7,000 to 10,000 miles per year expected of a commuter hatchback. While low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain and underbody components, it can also indicate extended periods of standing, which may have implications for specific items not directly covered by the MOT test. However, the absence of any advisories relating to brake binding, suspension corrosion, or tyre deterioration across successive tests suggests the vehicle has either been used regularly enough to keep components active or has been conscientiously exercised during periods of storage. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent, with no sudden jumps that would suggest clocking or inconsistent use, reinforcing confidence in the recorded figures. For a prospective buyer, the absence of advisories means there are no specific components flagged for immediate attention, but a thorough physical inspection should still focus on areas commonly affected by low-mileage electric vehicles. Particular attention should be paid to the brake calipers and discs, which can suffer from corrosion and binding due to limited use of the friction braking system, as regenerative braking handles the majority of deceleration in a Leaf. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or scraping from the front wheels during light braking, and feel for the vehicle pulling to one side, which would suggest a seized caliper. The condition of the tyres should be examined for flat spots, uneven wear patterns, or sidewall cracking, as tyres older than five years can suffer from rubber degradation even with adequate tread depth. The suspension and underbody should also be inspected closely, particularly the coil springs, anti-roll bar linkages, and bushes, as standing vehicles can develop corrosion on exposed metal components. During the test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking noises over uneven surfaces, and pay attention to the steering for any vagueness, clunks, or excess play that could indicate worn tie rod ends or drop links. Given the vehicle is now nine years old, a precautionary inspection of the high-voltage battery state of health through a diagnostic tool is advisable, as this is not assessed during the MOT but is critical to the long-term viability of any used Leaf. Finally, verify that the charging cable and port are undamaged and that all 12-volt auxiliary systems function correctly, as electronic ancillaries on early Leafs can present issues unrelated to the main powertrain.