2013 Nissan Leaf Electric · VA13 ADX

The Nissan Leaf’s most recent MOT test on 2026-04-09 confirms it passed without defects, though the immediate prior test on 2026-03-26 failed for unclear reasons—no recorded issues were logged. This abrupt reversal suggests either a minor oversight in test procedures or a transient fault that resolved itself before the retest. The broader trend over the past two years remains stable, with no recurring advisories or defects beyond the unexplained 2026 failure. The vehicle’s electrical and emissions systems appear to have been consistently compliant, though the lack of specific fault codes in the failed test leaves ambiguity about what may have been inspected inadequately. Mileage progression indicates typical usage for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 6,700 miles annually. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—approximately 8,700 miles in a year—suggests no prolonged periods of disuse, which could have masked corrosion or suspension degradation. The 2026 tests, however, show only a 17-mile increase over two weeks, an anomaly that may reflect either a temporary halt in use or an error in mileage reporting. No extended periods of low mileage are evident, reducing the likelihood of severe neglect-related issues like deep corrosion or seized components. Given the lack of documented defects, the most prudent areas for a buyer to scrutinise in person are the high-wear items not covered by the MOT—specifically, the suspension bushes and coil springs, which may show fatigue after 13 years. The braking system, while not explicitly failed, warrants inspection for uneven wear or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle exhibits uneven stopping. The battery health, though not testable on an MOT, should be assessed for capacity loss, given the Leaf’s reliance on its high-voltage pack. Finally, the underbody and wheel arches should be checked for corrosion, especially around the wheel bearings and suspension mounts, as electrical faults or water ingress could have gone undetected in previous tests.