2019 Nissan Leaf Electric · WM19 LLP

The most recent MOT test on the 2019 Nissan Leaf, conducted on 2024-01-19, resulted in a passing outcome, though it did include several advisories that warrant careful consideration. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2022, the presence of consistent front brake disc wear—both nearside and offside—suggests a potential underlying issue that may require attention to prevent further deterioration. The tyre advisories, particularly the near-side front tyre nearing legal limits and the offside rear tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing, indicate that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, the wear patterns are not ideal for long-term reliability. The fact that the tyre failure from 2023-01-23 was a major defect—an offside front tyre cut deep enough to expose the ply—highlights the importance of addressing tyre wear promptly, as such damage can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. The recorded mileage of 31,439 miles for a vehicle aged seven years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 4,491 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage can result from prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly in an electric vehicle where the battery may remain unused for extended periods. However, this usage profile does not necessarily mean the vehicle is in pristine condition; low mileage can also mask issues such as standing corrosion, particularly in the brake systems, suspension components, and battery terminals, where moisture and lack of movement can accelerate degradation. The absence of significant wear on consumables like fluids or the drivetrain components may be misleading, as electric vehicles often experience different stress patterns compared to internal combustion engine cars, particularly in the braking and electrical systems. Given the advisories on the front brake discs and tyres, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system during the test drive. Listen for any unusual noises such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate further disc wear or warping. Inspect the brake discs for any signs of excessive heat damage, cracking, or uneven glazing, and check the brake pads for consistent thickness and wear. The near-side front tyre nearing legal limits should be replaced promptly to avoid compromising stopping distances and handling. Additionally, the offside rear tyre’s cracking or perishing suggests that the buyer should consider replacing it soon, as such damage can lead to sudden blowouts or reduced tyre performance. If the tyre failure from 2023 is a red flag, the buyer should verify that the tyre was properly repaired or replaced and that no similar issues exist elsewhere on the vehicle. For the low-mileage electric vehicle, the buyer should also pay close attention to the battery and electrical systems, as prolonged inactivity can lead to issues such as reduced charge capacity or terminal corrosion. Check the battery terminals for signs of oxidation or corrosion, and ensure the battery management system is functioning correctly by monitoring the vehicle’s charging and discharge cycles. Inspect the suspension for any signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the strut mounts and control arms, as electric vehicles can be more susceptible to rust if not maintained properly. Furthermore, since the vehicle is seven years old, the buyer should consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, as these fluids can degrade over time, even without significant mileage. Verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, particularly for the battery, as electric vehicles often require specific servicing intervals for the electrical components. Lastly, the buyer should test the vehicle’s electrical systems, such as the infotainment, climate control, and regenerative braking, to ensure all components are functioning correctly and that there are no signs of electrical gremlins or wiring issues.