Nissan LEAF 2017 Owner's Manual

2017 LEAF

OWNER’S MANUAL

For your safety, read carefully and keep in this vehicle.

FOREWORD READ FIRST — THEN DRIVE SAFELY

Welcome to the growing family of new NISSAN owners. This vehicle is delivered to you with confidence. It was produced using the latest techniques and strict quality control.

This manual was prepared to help you understand the operation and maintenance of your vehicle so that you may enjoy many miles of driving pleasure. Please read through this manual before operating your vehicle.

A separate Warranty Information Booklet explains details about the warranties covering your vehicle. The NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide explains details about maintaining and servicing your vehicle. Additionally, a separate Customer Care/ Lemon Law Booklet (U.S. only) will explain how to resolve any concerns you may have with your vehicle, as well as clarify your rights under your state’s lemon law.

In addition to factory installed options, your vehicle may also be equipped with additional accessories installed prior to delivery. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for details concerning the particular accessories with which your vehicle is equipped. It is important that you familiarize yourself with all disclosures, warnings, cautions and instructions concerning proper use of such accessories prior to operating the vehicle and/or accessory. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for details concerning the particular accessories with which your vehicle is equipped.

A NISSAN certified LEAF dealer knows your vehicle best. When you require any service or have any questions, we will be glad to assist you with the extensive resources available to us.

Before driving your vehicle, read your Owner’s Manual carefully. This will ensure familiarity with controls and maintenance requirements, assisting you in the safe operation of your vehicle.

WARNING

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION REMINDERS! Follow these important driving rules to help ensure a safe and comfortable trip for you and your passengers!

• NEVER drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• ALWAYS observe posted speed limits and never drive too fast for conditions.

• ALWAYS give your full attention to driving and avoid using vehicle features or taking other actions that could distract you.

• ALWAYS use your seat belts and appropriate child restraint systems. Preteen children should be seated in the rear seat.

• ALWAYS provide information about the proper use of vehicle safety features to all occupants of the vehicle.

• ALWAYS review this Owner’s Manual for important safety information.

MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE

This vehicle should not be modified. Modification could affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from modification may not be covered under NISSAN warranties.

WARNING

Installing an aftermarket On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) plug-in device that uses the port during normal driving, for example remote insurance company monitoring, remote vehicle diagnostics, telematics or engine reprogramming, may cause interference or damage to vehicle systems. We do not recommend or endorse the use of any aftermarket OBD plug-in devices, unless specifically approved by NISSAN. The vehicle warranty may not cover damage caused by any aftermarket plug-in device.

WHEN READING THE MANUAL

This manual includes information for all features and equipment available on this model. Features and equipment in your vehicle may vary depending on model, trim level, options selected, order, date of production, region or availability. Therefore, you may find information about features or equipment that are not included or installed on your vehicle.

All information, specifications and illustrations in this manual are those in effect at the time of printing. NISSAN reserves the right to change specifications, performance, design or component suppliers without notice and without obligation. From time to time, NISSAN may update or revise this manual to provide Owners with the most accurate information currently available. Please carefully read and retain with this manual all revision updates sent to you by NISSAN to ensure you have access to accurate and up-todate information regarding your vehicle. Current versions of vehicle Owner’s Manuals and any updates can also be found in the Owner section of the NISSAN website at

https://owners.nissanusa.com/nowners/ navigation/manualsGuide. If you have ques-

tions concerning any information in your Owner’s Manual, contact NISSAN Consumer Affairs. For contact information, refer to the NISSAN CUS-

TOMER CARE PROGRAM page in this Owner’s Manual.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MANUAL

You will see various symbols in this manual. They are used in the following ways:

WARNING

This is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that could cause death or serious personal injury. To avoid or reduce the risk, the procedures must be followed precisely.

CAUTION

This is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that could cause minor or moderate personal injury or damage to your vehicle. To avoid or reduce the risk, the procedures must be followed carefully.

If you see the symbol above, it means “Do not do this” or “Do not let this happen”.

If you see a symbol similar to those above in an illustration, it means the arrow points to the front of the vehicle.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to those above indicate movement or action.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to those above call attention to an item in the illustration.

[ ]: Indicates a key/item displayed on the screen.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING

WARNING

Certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

CALIFORNIA PERCHLORATE ADVISORY

Some vehicle parts, such as lithium batteries, may contain perchlorate material. The following advisory is provided: “Perchlorate Material - special handling may apply. For additional information, refer to www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.”

Bluetooth® is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and licensed to Visteon.

SiriusXM® services require a subscription after trial period and are sold separately or as a package. The satellite service is available only in the 48 contiguous USA and DC. SiriusXM® satellite service is also available in Canada; see www.siriusxm.ca.

All rights reserved. No part of this Owner’s Manual may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Nissan North America, Inc.

NISSAN CUSTOMER CARE PROGRAM

NISSAN CARES ...

Both NISSAN and your NISSAN certified LEAF dealer are dedicated to serving all your automotive needs. Your satisfaction with your vehicle and your NISSAN certified LEAF dealer are our primary concerns. Your NISSAN certified LEAF dealer is always available to assist you with all your automobile sales and service needs. However, if there is something that your NISSAN certified LEAF dealer cannot assist you with or you would like to provide NISSAN directly with comments or questions, please contact the NISSAN Consumer Affairs Department using our toll-free number:

For U.S. customers

1-877-NOGASEV (1-877-664-2738)

For Canadian customers

1-800-387-0122

We appreciate your interest in NISSAN and thank you for buying a quality NISSAN vehicle.

The Consumer Affairs Department will ask for the following information:

• Your name, address, and telephone number

• Vehicle identification number (attached to the top of the instrument panel on the driver’s side)

• Date of purchase

• Current odometer reading

• Your NISSAN certified LEAF dealer’s name

• Your comments or questions

You can write to NISSAN with the information at:

For U.S. customers

Nissan North America, Inc. Consumer Affairs Department P.O. Box 685003 Franklin, TN 37068-5003 or via e-mail at: nnaconsumeraffairs@nissan-usa.com

For Canadian customers

Nissan Canada Inc. 5290 Orbitor Drive Mississauga, Ontario L4W 4Z5 or via e-mail at: information.centre@nissancanada. com

If you prefer, visit us at:

www.nissanusa.com (for U.S. customer) or

www.nissan.ca (for Canadian customers)

Table of

Illustrated table of contents

contents

EV Overview

Charging

Safety–Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

Instruments and controls

Pre-driving checks and adjustments

Display screen, heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems

Starting and driving

In case of emergency

Appearance and care

Maintenance and do-it yourself

Technical and consumer information

1 2

Index

0 Illustrated table of contents

Seats, seat belts and Supplemental Restraint System

(SRS) ..............................0-2

Exterior front ..........................0-3

Exterior rear ..........................0-4

Passenger compartment ...................0-5

Cockpit .............................0-6

Instrument panel........................0-8

Meters and gauges ......................0-9

Motor compartment .....................0-10

Warning and indicator lights ................0-11

SEATS, SEAT BELTS AND SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

1. Rear head restraints/headrests (P. 1-5)

2. Child restraint anchor points (for top tether strap child restraint) (P. 1-18)

3. Roof-mounted curtain side-impact and rollover (if so equipped) air bags (P. 1-39)

4. Front seat belt with pretensioner(s) and shoulder height adjuster (P. 1-8, 1-39)

5. Front head restraints/headrests (P. 1-5)

6. Front seats (P. 1-2)

7. Supplemental front-impact air bags (P. 1-39)

8. Front passenger air bag status light (P. 1-39)

9. Occupant classification sensor (weight sensor) (P. 1-39)

10. Front seat-mounted side-impact supple-

mental air bags (P. 1-39)

11. Rear seats (P. 1-2)

12. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for

CHildren) system (P. 1-18)

0-2 Illustrated table of contents

EXTERIOR FRONT

1. Charge port lid —Charging lid switch (P. 3-19) —Front camera (if so equipped) (P. 4-11)

2. Hood (P. 3-17)

3. Headlight and turn signal lights — Switch operation (P. 2-43) — Bulb replacement (P. 8-22) — Daytime running light system (if so equipped) (P. 2-45)

4. Wiper and washer switch — Switch operation (P. 2-39) — Blade replacement (P. 8-13) — Windshield-washer fluid (P. 8-11)

5. Outside mirrors —Switch operation (P. 3-23) — Side camera (if so equipped) (P. 4-11)

6. Power windows (P. 2-56)

7. Child safety rear door lock (P. 3-4)

8. Doors — Keys (P. 3-2) — Door locks (P. 3-4) — NISSAN Intelligent Key® system (P. 3-6) — Security system (P. 2-36)

9. Tires — Wheels and tires (P. 8-26, 9-5) — Flat tire (P. 6-3) — Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) (P. 2-17, 5-2)

10. Fog lights (if so equipped) — Switch operation (P. 2-46) — Bulb replacement (P. 8-22)

11. License plate installation (P. 9-8)

Illustrated table of contents 0-3

EXTERIOR REAR

7. Rear combination lights — Bulb replacement (P. 8-22)

8. Rear hatch (P. 3-18)

1. Rear view camera (P. 4-3, 4-11)

2. Rear wiper and washer switch — Switch operation (P. 2-39) — Windshield-washer fluid (P. 8-11)

3. High-mounted stop light — Bulb replacement (P. 8-22)

0-4 Illustrated table of contents

4. Rear window defroster (P. 2-42)

5. Solar cell module (if so equipped) (P. EV-25)

6. Antenna

— Satellite radio antenna (P. 4-61)

PASSENGER COMPARTMENT

6. Front heated seat switch (P. 2-48)

7. Front cup holders (P. 2-52)

8. Door armrest — Power window switch (P. 2-57) — Power door lock switch (P. 3-4) — Outside mirror remote control switch (P. 3-23)

9. Console box (P. 2-52)

10. Emergency tire puncture repair kit (P. 6-3)

11. Cargo area — Tonneau cover (if so equipped) (P. 2-52) — EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) (P. CH-27)

1. Room light (P. 2-59)

2. Sun visors (P. 3-22)

3. Map lights — Switch operation (P. 2-59) — Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System (without Navigation) microphone (P. 4-62)

— Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System (with Navigation) microphone (Refer to LEAF Navigation System Owner’s Manual)

4. Sunglasses holder (P. 2-52)

5. Mirror — Inside rearview mirror (P. 3-23) — HomeLink® (if so equipped) (P. 2-60)

Illustrated table of contents 0-5

COCKPIT

1. TRIP switch for twin trip odometer (P. 2-5)

2. Trip computer switch (P. 2-23)

3. Instrument brightness control switch (P. 2-42)

4. Headlight, fog light and turn signal switch

— Headlight (P. 2-43) — Turn signal light (P. 2-43) — Fog light (if so equipped) (P. 2-46)

5. Steering-wheel-mounted controls (left side)

— Audio control (P. 4-60) — Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System control (P. 4-62)

6. Steering wheel

— Power steering system (P. 5-20) — Horn (P. 2-47) — Driver’s supplemental air bag (P. 1-39)

7. Wiper and washer switch (P. 2-39)

8. Steering-wheel-mounted controls (right side)

— Cruise control switches (P. 5-16) — ECO switch (P. 2-48)

9. Console box (P. 2-52)

10. Shift lever (P. 5-12)

11. Front heated seat switch (P. 2-48)

12. Tilting steering wheel lever (P. 3-21)

13. Charge port lid switch (P. 3-19)

14. Charge connector lock switch (P. CH-5)

15. Charge timer OFF switch (P. 2-51)

0-6 Illustrated table of contents

16. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF switch (P. 2-49)

17. Heated steering wheel switch (if so equipped) (P. 2-46)

18. Fuse box cover (P. 8-17)

Illustrated table of contents 0-7

INSTRUMENT PANEL

10. Front passenger air bag status light, Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system warning light (P. 1-39, 2-14)

11. Auxiliary input jack (P. 4-60)

12. Power outlet (P. 2-51)

13. iPod® connector/USB connector (P. 4-42)

14. Push-button power switch (P. 5-7)

15. Hood release handle (P. 3-17)

1. Side vents (P. 4-22)

2. Meters and gauges (P. 2-5)

3. Center multi-function control panel — Navigation system (Refer to LEAF Navigation System Owner’s Manual) — Without navigation system (P. 4-42)

0-8 Illustrated table of contents

4. Hazard warning flasher switch (P. 6-2)

5. Center vents (P. 4-21)

6. Rear window defroster switch (P. 2-42)

7. Front passenger supplemental air bag (P. 1-39)

8. Glove box (P. 2-52)

9. Heater and air conditioner control (P. 4-22)

METERS AND GAUGES

11. READY to drive indicator light (P. 2-21)

12. ECO mode indicator light —ECO switch (P. 2-48) — Odometer/twin trip odometer (P. 2-6) — Trip computer (P. 2-28) — Shift “P” warning (P. 2-27) — Indicator for timer (P. 2-36)

13. Power meter (P. 2-7)

14. Warning and indicator lights (P. 2-12)

15. Li-ion battery temperature gauge (P. 2-7)

This vehicle is equipped with an upper display and a lower display.

1. Master warning lights (P. 2-18)

2. ECO indicator (P. 2-10)

3. Speedometer (P. 2-6)

4. Clock (P. 2-11)

5. Outside air temperature (P. 2-10)

6. Turn signal/Hazard indicator light (P. 2-22)

7. Li-ion battery capacity level gauge (P. 2-10)

8. Li-ion battery available charge gauge (P. 2-9)

9. Driving range (P. 2-8)

10. Vehicle information display (P. 2-23)

Illustrated table of contents 0-9

MOTOR COMPARTMENT

1. Brake fluid reservoir (P. 8-10)

2. 12-volt battery (P. 8-12)

3. Fuse holder (P. 8-17)

4. Fuse/Fusible link holder (P. 8-17)

5. Coolant reservoir cap (P. 8-8)

6. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir (P. 8-11)

7. Fuse/Fusible link holder (P. 8-17)

0-10 Illustrated table of contents

WARNING AND INDICATOR LIGHTS

Warn-

ing

light

Name Page

Warn-

ing

light

Name Page

Warn-

ing

light

Name Page

12-volt battery charge warning light

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light

Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system warning light

BRAKE system warning light (yellow)

BRAKE warning light (red)

Electric shift control system warning light

2-13

2-14

2-15

2-16

Electric Vehicle (EV) system warning light

Headlight warning light 2-16

Low battery charge warning light

Low tire pressure warning light

Master warning light (red/yellow)

Power steering warning light

Seat belt warning light 2-19

2-16

2-17

2-18

Supplemental air bag warning light

Indica-

tor

light

ECO mode switch indicator light

Exterior light indicator light

Front fog light indicator light (if so equipped)

Front passenger air bag status light

High beam indicator light (blue)

Name Page

Illustrated table of contents 0-11

2-19

2-20

Indica-

tor

light

Name Page

Plug-in indicator light 2-20

Power limitation indicator light

READY to drive indicator light

Security indicator light 2-21

Slip indicator light 2-21

Turn signal/hazard indicator lights

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF indicator light

0-12 Illustrated table of contents

2-20

2-21

2-22

EV Overview

The EV (Electric Vehicle) system .............EV-2

Li-ion battery .........................EV-2

Driving with a discharged Li-ion battery .......EV-3

Charging the 12-volt battery..............EV-5

Li-ion battery warmer (if so equipped) ........EV-5

High voltage precautions..................EV-7

High-voltage components ...............EV-7

Road accident precautions ................EV-8

Emergency shut-off system ..............EV-9

EV characteristics ......................EV-9

Noise and vibration ..................EV-10

Life with an EV (scene guide) ..............EV-10

Charging the Li-ion battery ..............EV-10

Before driving your vehicle

(models with navigation system)...........EV-13

Starting your vehicle..................EV-17

Driving the vehicle ...................EV-18

Charging after driving .................EV-22

Efficient use of your vehicle ...............EV-23

Range ..........................EV-23

Improve driving range .................EV-23

Li-ion battery life ....................EV-24

Li-ion battery maintenance ..............EV-25

EV unique information...................EV-25

Meters and indicators .................EV-25

Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP)

system..........................EV-28

Electric shift control system .............EV-29

LED headlight (low beam) (if so equipped) . . . .EV-29

Solar cell module (if so equipped)..........EV-30

Driving range (if so equipped) ............EV-30

THE EV (ELECTRIC VEHICLE) SYSTEM LI-ION BATTERY

The LEAF is an electric vehicle. Some of the vehicle’s systems operate differently and have different operating characteristics than vehicles equipped with an internal combustion engine. It is important to carefully review the entire Owner’s Manual for this reason. The main difference is the LEAF is powered by electricity. The LEAF does not require and it is not capable of using gasoline like a vehicle powered by a traditional internal combustion engine. The LEAF uses electricity stored in the lithium ion (Li-ion) battery. The vehicle’s Li-ion battery must be charged with electricity before the vehicle can be driven. As the vehicle operates, the Li-ion battery gradually discharges. If the Li-ion battery becomes completely discharged, the vehicle will not operate until it is re-charged.

This vehicle uses two types of batteries. One is the 12-volt battery that is the same as the battery in vehicles powered by gasoline engines, the other is the Li-ion battery (high voltage).

The 12-volt battery provides power to the vehicle systems and features such as the audio system, supplemental restraint systems, headlights and windshield wipers.

The Li-ion battery provides power to the electric motor (traction motor) that moves the vehicle.

The Li-ion battery also charges the 12-volt battery.

The vehicle must be plugged in for the Li-ion battery to be charged. Additionally, the vehicle system can extend the vehicle range by converting driving force into electricity that is stored in the Li-ion battery while the vehicle is decelerating or being driven downhill. This is called regenerative braking. This vehicle is considered to be an environmentally friendly vehicle because it does not emit exhaust gases, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide.

Your vehicle contains a sealed Li-ion high voltage battery. If the Li-ion battery is disposed of improperly, there is a risk of severe burns and electrical shock that may result in serious injury or death and there is also a risk of environmental damage.

To prevent damage to the Li-ion battery:

• Do not expose the vehicle to extreme ambient temperatures for extended periods.

• Do not store the vehicle in temperatures below −13°F (−25°C) for more than seven days.

• Do not leave the vehicle for more than 14 days where the Li-ion battery available charge gauge reaches a zero or near zero (state of charge).

• Do not use the Li-ion battery for any other purpose.

WARNING

CAUTION

EV-2 EV Overview

NOTE:

• If the outside temperature is −13°F (−25°C) or less, the Li-ion battery may freeze and it cannot be charged or provide power to run the vehicle. Move the vehicle to a warm location.

• The capacity of the Li-ion battery in your vehicle to hold a charge will, like all such batteries, decrease with time and usage. As the battery ages and capacity decreases, this will result in a decrease from the vehicle’s initial mileage range. This is normal, expected, and not indicative of any defect in your Li-ion battery. NISSAN estimates that battery capacity will be approximately 80% of original capacity after five years, although this is only an estimate, and this percentage may vary (and could be significantly lower) depending on individual vehicle and Li-ion battery usage.

• The Li-ion battery has limited service life, and when its charging capacity falls below a specific level, the EV system warning light will illuminate. Owners should bring their vehicle in for inspection and possible battery replacement.

• It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for information about recycling or disposal of the Li-ion battery. Do not attempt to recycle or dispose of the Li-ion battery yourself.

DRIVING WITH A DISCHARGED LI-ION BATTERY

When a destination is set in the navigation system (if so equipped) that exceeds the available vehicle range, the navigation system automatically searches the location of nearby charging stations. When the nearby charging station locations are displayed, charge the Li-ion battery as soon as possible.

Warning lights illuminate on the instrument panel and messages are displayed on the vehicle information display to inform you that the Li-ion battery charge is low. Instructions are also displayed on the navigation system screen (if so equipped) to direct you to nearby charging stations.

The vehicle’s range is very limited when these warning lights illuminate and messages are displayed. Follow the instructions on the navigation system screen (if so equipped) and immediately charge the vehicle at the nearest charging station.

EV Overview EV-3

There are three levels of information that will be displayed as the Li-ion battery becomes discharged:

1. The following warning lights illuminate on the instrument panel and messages are displayed

on the vehicle information display at the same time to indicate low Li-ion battery charge:

• The low battery charge warning light

• The master warning light

• “Li-ion battery low charge warning” warning message is displayed on the vehicle information display.

• For additional information, refer to “Low battery warning” in the “Instruments and controls” section of this manual.

• Messages are displayed on the center display (if so equipped).

• For additional information, refer to “Low battery warning” in the “Instruments and controls” section of this manual.

• Messages are displayed on the navigation system screen (if so equipped).

• The driving range flashes

䊊

NOTE:

Due to traffic conditions, it may be difficult to get to the charging station suggested by the navigation system (if so equipped). If the Li-ion battery is almost completely discharged, drive directly to the nearest charging station.

EV-4 EV Overview

2. If the vehicle is driven and the Li-ion battery continues to discharge, the driving range on the instrument panel changes to “— — —”

Messages are displayed on the navigation system screen (if so equipped). For additional information, refer to “Low battery warning” in the “Instruments and controls”section of this manual.

3. When the power limitation indicator light

illuminates, traction motor output is limited resulting in reduced vehicle speed. Stop the vehicle in a safe location before the Li-ion battery becomes completely discharged and there is no power available to drive the ve-

䊊

hicle. Contact Roadside Assistance Service shown in your NISSAN Warranty Information Booklet. For additional information, refer to “If the Li-ion battery becomes completely discharged” in the “In case of emergency” section of this manual.

CHARGING THE 12-VOLT BATTERY

The 12-volt battery is charged automatically using electricity stored in the Li-ion battery.

When the 12-volt battery is being charged, the charge status indicator light on the instrument panel flashes (except when charging the Li-ion battery or the power switch is in the READY to drive position). For additional information, refer to “Charging status indicator lights” in the “Charg-

ing” section of this manual.

While vehicle is driven

The Li-ion battery charges the 12-volt battery as necessary when the power switch is in the READY to drive position or ON position.

The 12-volt battery is not charged in the following conditions.

• When the power switch is in the ACC position. When the power switch is in the ON position and

• the shift position is in the N (Neutral) position.

While the vehicle is not in use

When the EV system is off for an extended time, the 12-volt battery may be automatically charged for a short period of time on a regular basis.

LI-ION BATTERY WARMER (IF SO EQUIPPED)

CAUTION

The Li-ion battery warmer does not operate if the available Li-ion battery charge is less than approximately 30% and the charger is not connected to the vehicle. To help prevent the Li-ion battery from freezing, do not leave the vehicle in an environment if temperatures may go below -1°F (-17°C) unless the vehicle is connected to a charger.

The Li-ion battery warmer helps to prevent the Li-ion battery from freezing and helps to prevent significant reductions in the Li-ion battery output when the temperature is cold. The Li-ion battery warmer automatically turns on when the Li-ion battery temperature is approximately -1°F (-17°C) or colder. The Li-ion battery warmer automatically turns off when the Li-ion battery temperature is approximately 14°F (-10°C) or higher.

EV Overview EV-5

The Li-ion battery warmer uses electrical power from an external source when a charger is connected to the vehicle. The Li-ion battery warmer uses electrical power from the Li-ion battery when the charger is not connected to the vehicle.

NOTE:

• Connect the charger to the vehicle and place the power switch in the OFF position when parking the vehicle if temperatures may go below -1°F (-17°C). This provides external power to the Li-ion battery warmer when it operates and does not discharge the Li-ion battery.

• The charging status indicator lights illuminate in a specific pattern when the Li-ion battery warmer operates. The charging status indicator lights use the same pattern to indicate 12-volt battery charging, Climate Ctrl. Timer operation or Remote Climate Control operation (models with navigation system). The charging status indicator lights do not change if the Li-ion battery warmer operates at the same time as the above features. For additional information, refer to “Charging status indicator lights” in the “Charging” section of this manual.

• The Li-ion battery warmer uses Li-ion battery power to operate, even if the vehicle is connected to a charger when:

– the vehicle’s power switch is in the ON

position.

– there is no electrical power being sup-

plied to the charging equipment.

• When the Li-ion battery warmer is already in operation using an external power source, it will continue to use the external power even if the power switch is placed in the ON position.

• Vehicle driving range is reduced if the Li-ion battery warmer operates (Li-ion battery temperature approximately -1°F (-17°C) or colder) while driving the vehicle. You may need to charge the Li-ion battery sooner than in warmer temperatures.

• The Li-ion battery requires more time to charge when the Li-ion battery warmer operates.

• The predicted charging time displayed on the meter and navigation system (if so equipped) increases when the Li-ion battery warmer operates.

• Climate control performance is reduced when using the Climate Ctrl. Timer or Remote Climate Control (models with navigation system) while the Li-ion battery warmer operates.

• The Li-ion battery may not charge to the expected level using the charging timer when [Start Time] (models with navigation system) and [End Time] are set while the Li-ion battery warmer operates.

• Set the Charging Timer [End Time] when charging in cold weather. The vehicle automatically determines when to start charging to fully charge the Li-ion battery, even if the Li-ion battery warmer operates. Charging ends before the set end time if the Li-ion battery is fully charged.

EV-6 EV Overview

HIGH VOLTAGE PRECAUTIONS

HIGH-VOLTAGE COMPONENTS

WARNING

• The EV system uses high voltage up to approximately DC 400 volt. The system can be hot during and after starting and when the vehicle is shut off. Be careful of both the high voltage and the high temperature. Follow the warning labels that are attached to the vehicle.

• Never disassemble, remove or replace high-voltage parts and cables as well as their connectors because they can cause severe burns or electric shock that may result in serious injury or death. High-voltage cables are colored orange. The vehicle high voltage system has no user serviceable parts. It is recommended that you take your vehicle to a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for any necessary maintenance.

1. Traction motor and reduction gear

2. Traction motor inverter

3. Power delivery module (PDM) (Charger, DC/DC converter, junction box)

4. High-voltage wire harnesses (colored orange)

5. Li-ion battery

6. Service plug

EV Overview EV-7

ROAD ACCIDENT PRECAUTIONS

WARNING

In case of a collision:

• If your vehicle is drivable, pull your vehicle off the road, push the P (Park) position switch on the shift lever, apply the parking brake and turn the EV system off.

• Check your vehicle to see if there are exposed high-voltage parts or cables. For their locations, refer to “High voltage components” in this section. To avoid personal injury, never touch high-voltage wiring, connectors, and other high-voltage parts, such as inverter unit and Li-ion battery. An electric shock may occur if exposed electric wires are visible when viewed from inside or outside of your vehicle. Therefore, never touch exposed electric wires.

• If the vehicle receives a strong impact to the floor while driving, stop the vehicle in a safe location and check the floor.

• Leaks or damage to the Li-ion battery may result in a fire. If you discover them, contact emergency services immediately. Since the fluid leak may be lithium manganate from the Li-ion battery, never touch the fluid leak inside or outside the vehicle. If the fluid contacts your skin or eyes, wash it off immediately with a large amount of water and receive immediate medical attention to help avoid serious injury.

• If a fire occurs in the EV, leave the vehicle as soon as possible. Only use a type ABC, BC or C fire extinguisher that is meant for use on electrical fires. Using a small amount of water or the incorrect fire extinguisher can result in serious injury or death from electrical shock.

• If your vehicle needs to be towed, do it with the front wheels raised. If the front wheels are on the ground when towing, the traction motor may generate electricity. This may damage the components of the EV system and cause a fire.

• If you are not able to safely assess the vehicle due to vehicle damage, do not touch the vehicle. Leave the vehicle and contact emergency services. Advise first responders that this is an electric vehicle.

• In the event of an accident that requires body repair and painting, the Li-ion battery pack and high voltage parts such as the inverter, including the wire harness, should be removed prior to painting. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for this service. Li-ion battery packs exposed to heat in the paint booth will experience capacity loss. Damaged Li-ion battery packs may also pose safety risks to untrained mechanics and repair personnel.

EV-8 EV Overview

EMERGENCY SHUT-OFF SYSTEM

The emergency shut-off system is activated and the high-voltage system automatically turns off in the following conditions:

- Front and side collisions in which the air bags are deployed.

- Certain rear collisions.

- Certain EV system malfunctions.

For the above collisions and certain other EV system malfunctions, the READY to drive indicator light will turn off. For additional information, refer to “Warning lights, indicator lights and audible reminders” in the “Instruments and controls” section of this manual.

The emergency shut-off activates for the above collisions to minimize risk of an event that could cause injury or an accident. If the emergency shut-off system activates, the EV system may not be switched to the READY to drive position; it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer. Even if the power switch is switched to the READY to drive position, the system may shut-off suddenly. Therefore, drive cautiously to the nearest certified repair facility; it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for service.

EV CHARACTERISTICS

WARNING

• Pay special attention to pedestrians. Because there is no engine noise, pedestrians may not know the vehicle is approaching, moving or about to move, and may step into the path of vehicle travel.

• When leaving the vehicle, be sure to turn off the EV system.

• Be sure to push the P (Park) position switch on the shift lever and apply the parking brake when parking because the vehicle can move when the READY to drive indicator light is ON. When the READY to drive indicator light is ON, do not leave your vehicle in a shift position other than the P (Park) position.

• Keep the brake pedal depressed until you are ready to drive. When the vehicle is in the D (Drive) position, B or R (Reverse) position, if you release the brake pedal and do not depress the accelerator, the vehicle will creep and may start abruptly. This may cause serious injury or death.

NOTE:

• The vehicle cannot run with a discharged Li-ion battery. Repeated acceleration consumes more power from the Li-ion battery than driving at a steady speed.

• This vehicle is equipped with a regenerative brake system. The primary purpose of the regenerative brake system is to provide some power to recharge the Li-ion battery and extend driving range. A secondary benefit is “engine braking” that operates based on Li-ion battery conditions.

• In the D (Drive) position, when the accelerator pedal is released, the regenerative brake system provides some deceleration.

• When you put the shift lever in the B position and take your foot off the accelerator pedal, more regenerative brake is applied than in the D (Drive) position.

EV Overview EV-9

• Less deceleration is provided by the regenerative brake system when the Li-ion battery is fully charged. The regenerative brake is automatically reduced when the Li-ion battery is fully charged to prevent the Li-ion battery from becoming overcharged. The regenerative brake is also automatically reduced when the battery temperature is high/low (indicated by the red/blue zones on the Li-ion battery temperature gauge) to prevent Li-ion battery damage.

• The brake pedal should be used to slow or stop the vehicle depending on traffic or road conditions. The vehicle brakes are not affected by the regenerative brake system operation.

NOISE AND VIBRATION

You might experience the following noise or vibration as a normal characteristic of this vehicle:

• Traction motor noise from the motor compartment.

• Water pump and radiator fan noise while charging.

• Compressor and radiator fan noise when the Climate Ctrl. Timer or remote climate control (models with navigation system) is used.

• Relay operation noise and vibration at start-up and shut-down of the EV system (power switch placed in the ON and OFF position).

• Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP).

LIFE WITH AN EV (SCENE GUIDE)

This section provides a brief explanation for the most important LEAF functions. For additional information, refer to the specific sections of this manual for detailed explanations of the vehicle features and operation.

CHARGING THE LI-ION BATTERY

WARNING

The EV system uses a high voltage current. Failure to follow the proper handling instructions may cause serious injury or death. Be sure to read the “Charging” section and follow the procedures and guidelines described.

EV-10 EV Overview

EV Overview EV-11

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