2012 NISSAN LEAF maintenance

Parking brake mechanically release ....................... 6-16
PowerElectric power steering system ........................ 5-21
Power door lock...................................................... 3-4
Power windows .................................................... 2-53
Power economy........................................................... 5-19
Power meter ................................................................... 2-7
Power outlet ................................................................. 2-48
Power switch......................................................... 5-7, 5-8
Precautions Braking precautions............................................. 5-21
Charging................................................................ CH-2
Child restraints...................................................... 1-19
Cruise control........................................................ 5-17
High voltage precautions ................................... EV-7
Maintenance ............................................................. 8-4
Road accident precautions................................ EV-8
Seat belt usage .................................................... 1-10
Supplemental restraint system.......................... 1-36
When starting and driving .................................... 5-2
Push starting ................................................................ 6-12
Q
Quick charge............................................................ CH-16
R
Rapid air pressure loss................................................ 5-5
Rear center seat belt ................................................. 1-16
Rear door lock, Child safety rear door lock........... 3-6
Rear hatch..................................................................... 3-17
Rear seats....................................................................... 1-4
Rear window and outside mirror
defroster switch........................................................... 2-40
Rear window wiper and washer switch ............... 2-39
Reduction gear fluid..................................................... 8-9 Remote charge ........................................................ CH-25
Remote climate control.............................................. 4-11
Remote keyless entry function, For Intelligent
Key system.................................................................... 3-13
Repairing flat tire........................................................... 6-3
Repairing tire.................................................................. 6-5
Reporting safety defects........................................... 9-15
Road accident precautions....................................... EV-8
Roadside assistance program ................................... 6-2
Rollover............................................................................ 5-5
S
Safety Child seat belts .................................................... 1-17
Reporting safety defects.................................... 9-15
Scene guide At home after driving......................................... EV-21
Before driving your vehicle .............................. EV-13
Charging the Li-ion battery.............................. EV-10
Driving the vehicle.............................................. EV-17
Parking the vehicle............................................. EV-20
Starting your vehicle.......................................... EV-16
Seat adjustment Front manual seat adjustment.............................. 1-3
Front seats................................................................ 1-3
Seat belt(s) Child safety............................................................ 1-17
Infants...................................................................... 1-17
Injured persons..................................................... 1-12
Larger children...................................................... 1-18
Precautions on seat belt usage........................ 1-10
Pregnant women .................................................. 1-12
Rear center seat belt .......................................... 1-16
Seat belt cleaning................................................... 7-6
Seat belt extenders.............................................. 1-16
Seat belt hooks .................................................... 1-15 Seat belt maintenance........................................ 1-16
Seat belt warning light........................................ 2-18
Seat belts............................................................... 1-10
Seat belts with pretensioners........................... 1-49
Shoulder belt height adjustment...................... 1-15
Small children........................................................ 1-18
Three-point type................................................... 1-12
Seat(s) , Seats................................................................ 1-2 Heated seats......................................................... 2-46
Security system (NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer
System) , EV system start.......................................... 2-36
Servicing climate control........................................... 4-14
Shifting Electric shift control system .............................. 5-11
Shoulder belt height adjustment, For
front seats..................................................................... 1-15
Soft bottle holders...................................................... 2-50
Solar cell module .......................................................... 7-3
Speedometer.................................................................. 2-6
Starting .......................................................................... 5-11 Before starting system........................................ 5-10
Jump starting............................................................ 6-9
Precautions when starting and driving .............. 5-2
Push starting ......................................................... 6-12
Status light, Front passenger air bag .................... 1-44
Steering Electric power steering system ........................ 5-21
Heated steering wheel........................................ 2-45
Tilting steering column........................................ 3-19
Stopping the vehicle .................................................... 6-4
Storage .......................................................................... 2-49
Stowing golf bags....................................................... 2-53
Sun visors ..................................................................... 3-20
Supplemental air bag warning labels..................... 1-50
Supplemental air bag warning light............ 1-50, 2-18
Supplemental restraint system................................. 1-36

webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Steering wheel:Check for changes in the
steering conditions, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure that
all warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
emits from the defroster outlets properly and in
sufficient quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washers operate properly and
that the wipers do not streak.
Under hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically.
12-volt battery*: Check the fluid level in each
cell.
It should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
12-volt battery fluid level.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines on
the reservoir. Coolant level*:
Check the coolant level when
the motor compartment is cold.
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for water
or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has been
parked for a short period of time. Water dripping
from the air conditioner after use is normal. If you
notice any leaks, check for the cause and have it
corrected immediately.
Radiator and hoses: Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure that
the hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or
loose connections.
Underbody: The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan and frame. At
the end of winter, the underbody should be
thoroughly flushed with plain water, being care-
ful to clean those areas where mud and dirt may
accumulate. For additional information, see
“Cleaning exterior” in the “7. Appearance and
care” section.
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there is
an adequate amount of fluid in the reservoir.

maintenance.
. Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely
and chock the wheels to prevent
the vehicle from moving. Push the P
position switch on the selector lever
or place the vehicle into the N
(Neutral) position.
. If you must work with the EV
(Electric vehicle) system is turned
on, keep hands, clothing, hair and
tools away from moving fans and
any other moving parts.
. Make sure that the power switch is
in the OFF or LOCK position when
performing any part replacement or
repairs.
. It is advisable to secure or remove
any loose clothing and remove any
jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.
before working on your vehicle.
. Always wear eye protection when-
ever you work on your vehicle.
. Never get under the vehicle while it
is supported only by a jack. If it is
necessary to work under the vehicle,
support it with safety stands. .
Keep smoking materials, flames
and sparks away from the 12-volt
battery.

position to prevent the 12-volt bat-
tery automatically being charged by
the Li-ion battery. See “Charging
the 12-volt battery” in the “EV.
Overview” section.
This “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
that are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN Service Manual is also
available. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual
order information” in the “9. Technical and
consumer information” section.
You should be aware that incomplete or
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties and could affect your warranty cover-
age. If in doubt about any servicing, we
recommend that it be done by a NISSAN
certified LEAF dealer.

2 Instruments and controls
Cockpit ....................................................................................... 2-3
Instrument panel ....................................................................... 2-4
Meters and gauges .................................................................. 2-5Speedometer and odometer ........................................... 2-6
Li-ion battery temperature gauge ................................... 2-7
Power meter ........................................................................ 2-7
Driving range ....................................................................... 2-8
Li-ion battery available charge gauge ........................... 2-9
Li-ion battery capacity level gauge ............................. 2-10
Outside air temperature ................................................ 2-10
ECO indicator .................................................................. 2-10
Clock .................................................................................. 2-11
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders ........... 2-12
Checking bulbs ................................................................ 2-13
Warning lights .................................................................. 2-13
Indicator lights .................................................................. 2-19
Audible reminders ........................................................... 2-21
Dot matrix liquid crystal display ......................................... 2-22 Indicators for operation .................................................. 2-23
Trip computer ................................................................... 2-27
Warning information displays ....................................... 2-31
Indicators for maintenance ........................................... 2-33
Indicator for timer ............................................................ 2-34
Security systems ................................................................... 2-35 Vehicle security system ................................................. 2-35 NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System ....................... 2-36
Windshield wiper and washer switch ............................. 2-38 Washer operation ......................................................... 2-39
Rear window wiper and washer switch ........................ 2-39
Rear window and outside mirror defroster switch ...... 2-40
Instrument brightness control ............................................ 2-41
Headlight and turn signal switch ...................................... 2-41 Headlight switch ........................................................... 2-41
Turn signal switch ......................................................... 2-44
Fog light switch (if so equipped) ..................................... 2-44
Hazard warning flasher switch .......................................... 2-45
Heated steering wheel ........................................................ 2-45
Horn ......................................................................................... 2-46
Heated seats ......................................................................... 2-46
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF switch ................ 2-48
Power outlet ........................................................................... 2-48
Storage ................................................................................... 2-49 Cup holders .................................................................... 2-49
Sunglasses holder ........................................................ 2-50
Glove box ........................................................................ 2-51
Console box ................................................................... 2-51
Cargo cover (if so equipped) .................................... 2-51
Stowing golf bags ........................................................ 2-53
Luggage side hook ....................................................... 2-53

CAUTION
.Be sure to carry the Intelligent Key
with you when operating the vehi-
cle.
. Never leave the Intelligent Key in
the vehicle when you leave the
vehicle.
The Intelligent Key is always communicating with
the vehicle because it receives radio waves. The
Intelligent Key system transmits weak radio
waves. Environmental conditions may interfere
with the operation of the Intelligent Key system
under the following operating conditions.
. When operating near a location where
strong radio waves are transmitted, such
as a TV tower, power station or broad-
casting station.
. When in possession of wireless equipment,
such as a cellular phone, transceiver or CB
radio.
. When the Intelligent Key is in contact with or
covered by metallic materials.
. When any type of radio wave remote control
is used nearby. .
When the Intelligent Key is placed near an
electric appliance such as a personal
computer.
. When the vehicle is parked near a parking
meter.
In such cases, correct the operating conditions
before using the Intelligent Key function or use
the mechanical key.
Although the life of the battery varies depending
on the operating conditions, the battery’s life is
approximately 2 years. If the battery is dis-
charged, replace it with a new one.
When the Intelligent Key battery is almost
discharged, firmly apply the foot brake and
touch the power switch with the Intelligent Key.
Then push the power switch while depressing
the brake pedal within 10 seconds after the
chime sound.
Since the Intelligent Key is continuously receiv-
ing radio waves, if the key is left near equipment
that transmits strong radio waves, such as
signals from a TV or personal computer, the
battery life may become shorter.
For information regarding replacement of a
battery, see “Intelligent Key battery replacement”
in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section. Pay special attention that the vehicle battery is
not completely discharged.
As many as 4 Intelligent Keys can be registered
and used with one vehicle. For information about
the purchase and use of additional Intelligent
Keys, contact a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer.

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 heater ....................................................... EV-5
High voltage precautions .................................................... EV-7
High-voltage components ............................................. EV-7
Road accident precautions ................................................ EV-8 Emergency shut-off system .......................................... EV-9
EV (Electric Vehicle) 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 ........................................ EV-13
Starting your vehicle .................................................... EV-16
Driving the vehicle ........................................................ EV-17 At home after driving ................................................. EV-21
Efficient use of your vehicle ............................................ EV-22 Range ............................................................................ EV-22
Improve driving range ............................................... EV-22
Li-ion battery life ......................................................... EV-23
Li-ion battery maintenance ...................................... EV-24
EV unique information ...................................................... EV-24 Meters and indicators ............................................... EV-24
Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians
(VSP) system .............................................................. EV-27
Electric shift control system .................................... EV-28
Electric parking brake ............................................... EV-28
LED headlight (low beam) ....................................... EV-29
Solar cell module (if so equipped) ........................ EV-29
Driving range button ................................................ EV-29

1 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supple-mental restraint system
Seats ........................................................................................... 1-2
Front seats ........................................................................... 1-3
Rear seats ........................................................................... 1-4
Head restraints ................................................................... 1-4
Adjustable headrests ......................................................... 1-7
Seat belts ................................................................................ 1-10
Precautions on seat belt usage ................................... 1-10
Pregnant women ............................................................. 1-12
Injured persons ................................................................ 1-12
Three-point type seat belt with retractor .................. 1-12
Seat belt extenders ......................................................... 1-16
Seat belt maintenance ................................................... 1-16
Child safety ............................................................................. 1-17
Infants ................................................................................. 1-17
Small children ................................................................... 1-18
Larger children ................................................................. 1-18
Child restraints ....................................................................... 1-19 Precautions on child restraints .................................... 1-19
Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren System
(LATCH) ........................................................................... 1-20
Rear-facing child restraint installation using latch ... 1-23 Rear-facing child restraint installation using the
seat belts ......................................................................... 1-25
Forward-facing child restraint installation
using latch ...................................................................... 1-27
Forward-facing child restraint installation using the
seat belts ......................................................................... 1-29
Installing top tether strap ............................................ 1-32
Booster seats ........................................................................ 1-33 Precautions on booster seats .................................... 1-33
Booster seat installation .............................................. 1-34
Supplemental restraint system .......................................... 1-36 Precautions on supplemental restraint system ...... 1-36
NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System
(front seats) .................................................................... 1-42
Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental
air bag and roof-mounted curtain side-impact
supplemental air bag systems ................................... 1-47
Seat belts with pretensioners (front seats) ............ 1-49
Supplemental air bag warning labels ...................... 1-50
Supplemental air bag warning light ......................... 1-50
Repair and replacement procedure ......................... 1-51