2022 Nissan Leaf Electric · WN72 TWD

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2022 Nissan Leaf conducted on 2026-09-01 resulted in a passing outcome with no recorded defects, following a previous failure in 2025-09-01 that flagged a dangerous condition—specifically, a nearside front tyre exhibiting structural separation or partial failure, classified under 5.2.3 (d) (ii). This discrepancy between the two tests indicates an anomaly in the vehicle’s tyre integrity, suggesting either a pre-existing issue that was not properly addressed or a failure to correct a previous defect. While the current MOT is clean, the prior failure highlights a critical oversight in maintenance, prompting caution that the tyre may still pose a long-term risk if not thoroughly inspected. The trend thus appears to be improving post-failure, but the buyer should treat this as a red flag requiring immediate attention rather than a benign oversight. The recorded mileage of 27,305 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,826 miles, which aligns with typical driving patterns for its class. However, the presence of a tyre failure at 27,305 miles—particularly on a vehicle that has not accumulated significantly more mileage—suggests either a structural weakness in the tyre that developed prematurely or a history of underinflation, excessive load, or improper storage conditions. The lack of a corresponding increase in mileage since the failure implies that the vehicle may have been driven at a lower average speed or under less demanding conditions, which could mask other wear patterns. The buyer should also consider whether the vehicle has been stored in a controlled environment, as prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight can accelerate tyre degradation, especially in electric vehicles where rubber compounds may be more susceptible to UV damage. Given the critical tyre failure recorded in the prior MOT, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front tyre’s condition, particularly the nearside. Look for signs of further separation, bulges, or cracks that could indicate ongoing structural compromise. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the wheel assembly, such as a grinding or scraping sound when cornering or accelerating, which may signal loose or misaligned components. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could point to alignment or suspension issues that may have contributed to the tyre failure. If the tyre is deemed unsafe, the buyer should immediately replace it with a new, high-quality tyre designed for electric vehicles, ensuring it meets current UK standards for load and speed ratings. Beyond the tyre, the buyer should also verify that the vehicle’s suspension components—such as coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes—have not been compromised by the tyre failure, as excessive movement or clunking noises during cornering could indicate related wear. For the Nissan Leaf’s age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s bodywork and undercarriage for signs of corrosion, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure, such as wheel arches, under the front bumper, and near the front suspension mountings. Given the vehicle’s electric powertrain, check the battery system for any signs of swelling, leaks, or excessive heat, which could indicate a failing cell or cooling system failure. Inspect the 12V battery and starter motor for corrosion or fluid leaks, as these components can degrade over time, especially in a vehicle that has been stationary for extended periods. Furthermore, since the Leaf’s fluid systems, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, degrade over time regardless of mileage, the buyer should request service records to confirm that these fluids have been changed in accordance with manufacturer recommendations, ideally every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 2 to 3 years, whichever comes first. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s exhaust system is free from leaks or corrosion, as the Leaf’s emissions system may require periodic checks to ensure compliance with current regulations, particularly if the vehicle has been driven on longer trips or in varied climates.