Nissan’s LEAF cheap to run
Model: 2011-2017 Nissan LEAF
Vehicle type: EV hatchback
History/description: The Nissan LEAF is a sort of pinnacle in the EV scene and a model that’s given nearly 300,000 motorists around the globe the benefit of generous cargo space, flexibility and fuel-free, emissions-free driving.
Equipment may include a backup camera, push-button start, heated front and rear seats, navigation, upgraded wheels, a BOSE stereo, Nissan’s around-viewmonitor parking camera system, and more.
All models run an electric motor that powers the front wheels. Power is stored in a battery mounted within the vehicle floor. Look for just shy of 110 horsepower, backed by nearly 190 lb.-ft. of torque — all noiseless. With proper equipment, a full battery charge takes as little as five hours, and a quick charge function allowed an 80 per cent recharge in just half an hour.
Shoppers can expect a driving range of around 100 to 150 km, though various factors and variables will affect that range. From 2016, an updated battery slightly improved driving range.
What owners like: Owners love the LEAF’S cheap-to-run costs, the joy of never stopping to gas up, and the charm of planning daily tasks and visits to recharging stations, as needed, to capitalize fully on the machine’s EV range. Though any number of gasoline powered cars can be had for less money and with no range anxiety, LEAF is raved about as a great fit for folks who drive about 75 km per day or less.
What owners dislike: Common gripes include long charging times where no quick-charger outlet is available, the decrease in driving range associated with cold-weather driving, and a low-budget feel to some of the interior trimmings.
The test drive: Potential buyers are advised to consider a pre-purchase inspection, by a Nissan technician, mandatory before purchase. This inspection should take about 60 minutes, is relatively cheap, and is a fast and reliable way to help ensure the unit you’re considering is in tiptop shape.
Think ‘software updates’. These are commonly applied to vehicles during servicing to reprogram or recalibrate vehicle systems to improve durability, efficiency or performance, or to address some latent issue or defect. On the LEAF, software updates reprogrammed the braking system for improved performance, helped to more accurately display remaining driving range, and improved compatibility and re- charge times with certain brands of electric recharging stations. For the best used LEAF ownership experience, be sure the model you’re considering has had all software updates applied. With the vehicle’s VIN number handy, a Nissan dealer should be able to identify any outstanding software updates in play.
Like all batteries, the LEAF’S EV battery will degrade slowly over time, meaning that, eventually, the total capacity of the battery will shrink. Some in the owner’s community suggest that this issue is more drastic in 2011 and 2012 models, so budget for a newer unit, if feasible. Remember that software updates can help improve battery lifespan, and that dealers can run a diagnostic test that examines the battery’s effective capacity.
Note that frequent long-term storage of the vehicle can negatively affect EV battery life, so avoid a used LEAF that you know has been parked regularly for weeks or months on end.
Many second- hand LEAF shoppers use a Smartphone app called LEAFSPY, which connects to the vehicle’s OBD port and performs its own battery life scan. Some consider this third-party check mandatory before buying a used LEAF. Others don’t.
Familiarize yourself with how to check how many life ‘bars’ are remaining on the used LEAF’S battery display, before you buy.
When new, the battery starts at 12 total life bars. After some time, this will be reduced. Note that some models may qual- ify for a warranty replacement battery once overall capacity falls below a certain point. Ask your dealer for more information.
Note, too, that the LEAF also runs a conventional 12-volt battery, just like a regular car, to power on-board accessories. A weak or dying 12-volt battery can cause numerous annoying issues, so if you note any wonkiness or non-functionality relating to on-board accessories, start with a check of the LEAF’S 12-volt battery.
Be sure the charging cord and plug are in good shape, not frayed or worn, and that the charger plug isn’t split, cracked, or showing any signs of wear. As worn out charging gear can be a safety hazard and relatively expensive to replace, now’s the time to be sure that the seller isn’t trying to pass off a pricey bill.
Finally, remember that the LEAF is a plug-in EV, but that it’s also a normal car in many ways, too. Though you needn’t worry about on-time oil changes or timing belt replacements, LEAF has a braking system, tires, suspension, on-board entertainment systems, and other accessories that should all be checked out for proper operation, or signs of excessive wear.
The verdict: For the right shopper, and one who drives well within the LEAF’S range on a daily basis, a healthy used model represents a compelling way to skip the gas station.