2014 NISSAN LEAF maintenance

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Symptom Possible cause Action to take
When opening the driver’s door to
get out of the vehicleThe inside warning chime sounds continuously.The power switch is pushed to the OFF po-
sition while the driver’s door is open.Close the driver’s door.
The power switch is in the ACC position.Push the power switch to the OFF position then
close the driver’s door.
When closing the door after getting
out of the vehicleThe KEY is not detected warning appears on the
display, the outside chime sounds 3 times and the
inside warning chime sounds for a few seconds.The power switch is in the ACC or ON posi-
tion.Push the power switch to the OFF position.
When closing the door with the in-
side lock knob turned to LOCKThe outside chime sounds for a few seconds and
all the doors unlock.The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle or
cargo area.Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
When pushing the request switch or
the “LOCK”
button on the Intel-
ligent Key to lock the doorThe outside chime sounds for a few seconds.The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle or a
cargo area.Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
A door is not closed securely. Close the door securely.
When pushing the power switch in
the READY to drive positionThe Intelligent Key battery discharge indicator ap-
pears on the display.The Intelligent Key battery charge is low.Replace the battery with a new one. See “Key
battery replacement” in the “Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
The Key is not detected warning appears on the
display and the inside warning chime sounds for a
few seconds.The Intelligent Key is not in the vehicle. Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
When pushing the power switchThe Intelligent Key system warning indicator ap-
pears on the display.It warns of a malfunction with the Intelligent
Key system.Contact a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer.
3-12Pre-driving checks and adjustments

WARNING
• Do not leave children or adults who
would normally require the support of
others alone in your vehicle. Pets
should not be left alone either. They
could accidentally injure themselves or
others through inadvertent operation
of the vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days,
temperatures in a closed vehicle could
quickly become high enough to cause
severe or possibly fatal injuries to
people or animals.
• Properly secure all cargo with ropes or
straps to help prevent it from sliding or
shifting. Do not place cargo higher
than the seatbacks. In a sudden stop or
collision, unsecured cargo could cause
personal injury.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING
SYSTEM (TPMS)
Each tire, should be checked monthly when cold
and inflated to the inflation pressure recom-
mended by the vehicle manufacturer on the ve-
hicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If
your vehicle has tires of a different size than the
size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire infla-tion pressure label, you should determine the
proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been
equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale
when one or more of your tires is significantly
under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire
pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and
check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate
them to the proper pressure. Driving on a signifi-
cantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to over-
heat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation
also reduces power efficiency and tire tread life,
and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stop-
ping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for
proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure,
even if under-inflation has not reached the level to
trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure
telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a
TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly. The TPMS mal-
function indicator is combined with the low tire
pressure telltale. When the system detects a
malfunction, the telltale will flash for approxi-mately one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue upon
subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the mal-
function exists. When the malfunction indicator is
illuminated, the system may not be able to detect
or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS
malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons,
including the installation of replacement or alter-
nate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent
the TPMS from functioning properly. Always
check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replac-
ing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to
ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and
wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function
properly.
Additional information
• The TPMS will activate only when the vehicle is
driven at speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h) .
Also, this system may not detect a sudden drop
in tire pressure (for example, a flat tire while
driving) .
• The low tire pressure warning light does not
automatically turn off when the tire pressure is
adjusted. After the tire is inflated to the recom-
mended pressure, the vehicle must be driven at
speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h) to activate the
TPMS and turn off the low tire pressure warning
PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING
AND DRIVING
5-2Starting and driving

6. When it is safe to do so, gradually turn the
steering wheel until both tires return to the
road surface. When all tires are on the road
surface, steer the vehicle to stay in the appro-
priate driving lane.
• If you decide that it is not safe to return the
vehicle to the road surface based on vehicle,
road or traffic conditions, gradually slow the
vehicle to a stop in a safe place off the road.
RAPID AIR PRESSURE LOSS
Rapid air pressure loss or a “blow-out” can occur
if the tire is punctured or is damaged due to
hitting a curb or pothole. Rapid air pressure loss
can also be caused by driving on under-inflated
tires.
Rapid air pressure loss can affect the handling
and stability of the vehicle, especially at highway
speeds.
Help prevent rapid air pressure loss by maintain-
ing the correct air pressure and visually inspect
the tires for wear and damage. See “Wheels and
tires” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section of this manual.
If a tire rapidly loses air pressure or “blows-out”
while driving maintain control of the vehicle by
following the procedure below. Please note thatthis procedure is only a general guide. The ve-
hicle must be driven as appropriate based on the
conditions of the vehicle, road and traffic.
WARNING
The following actions can increase the
chance of losing control of the vehicle if
there is a sudden loss of tire air pressure.
Losing control of the vehicle may cause a
collision and result in personal injury.
• The vehicle generally moves or pulls in
the direction of the flat tire.
• Do not rapidly apply the brakes.
• Do not rapidly release the accelerator
pedal.
• Do not rapidly turn the steering wheel.
1. Remain calm and do not overreact.
2. Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel with
both hands and try to hold a straight course.
3. When appropriate, slowly release the accel-
erator pedal to gradually slow the vehicle.
4. Gradually steer the vehicle to a safe location
off the road and away from traffic if possible.
5. Lightly apply the brake pedal to gradually stop
the vehicle.
6. Turn on the hazard warning flashers and either
contact a roadside emergency service tochange the tire or see “Flat tire” in the “In case
of emergency” section of this Owner’s
Manual.DRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS AND
DRIVING
WARNING
Never drive under the influence of alco-
hol or drugs. Alcohol in the bloodstream
reduces coordination, delays reaction
time and impairs judgement. Driving af-
ter drinking alcohol increases the likeli-
hood of being involved in an accident
injuring yourself and others. Additionally,
if you are injured in an accident, alcohol
can increase the severity of the injury.
NISSAN is committed to safe driving. However,
you must choose not to drive under the influence
of alcohol. Every year thousands of people are
injured or killed in alcohol-related accidents. Al-
though the local laws vary on what is considered
to be legally intoxicated, the fact is that alcohol
affects all people differently and most people
underestimate the effects of alcohol.
5-6Starting and driving

NISSAN INTELLIGENT KEY®
BATTERY DISCHARGE
If the Intelligent Key battery is discharged, or
environmental conditions interfere with the Intel-
ligent Key operation, start the EV (Electric Ve-
hicle) system in the READY to drive mode ac-
cording to the following procedure:
1. Push the P (Park) position switch on the shift
lever.
2. Firmly apply the foot brake.
3. Touch the power switch with the Intelligent
Key as illustrated. (A chime will sound.)4. Push the power switch while depressing the
brake pedal within 10 seconds after the
chime sounds. The power switch position
changes to READY to drive mode.
After step 3 is performed, if the power switch is
pushed without depressing the brake pedal, the
power switch position will change to ACC.
NOTE:
•When the power switch is pushed to the
ACC or ON position or READY to drive
mode by the above procedure, the Intelli-
gent Key battery discharge indicator ap-
pears on the vehicle information display
even if the Intelligent Key is inside the
vehicle. This is not a malfunction. To stop
the warning indicator from blinking, touch
the power switch with the Intelligent Key
again.
•If the Intelligent Key system battery dis-
charge indicator appears on the vehicle
information display, replace the battery as
soon as possible. See “Intelligent key bat-
tery replacement” in the “Maintenance
and do-it-yourself” section.• Make sure that the area around the vehicle is
clear.
• Check fluid levels such as coolant, brake fluid,
and window washer fluid as frequently as pos-
sible.
• Check that all windows and lights are clean.
• Visually inspect tires for their appearance and
condition. Also check tires for proper inflation.
• Check that all doors are closed.
• Position the seat and adjust the head restraints/
headrests.
• Adjust the inside and outside mirrors.
• Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to do
likewise.
• Check the operation of the warning lights when
the power switch is pushed to the ON position.
(See “Warning/indicator lights and audible re-
minders” in the “Instruments and controls” sec-
tion.)
BEFORE STARTING THE EV
(ELECTRIC VEHICLE) SYSTEM
5-10Starting and driving

• If you move the shift lever to the N (Neutral)
position, the cruise control will be canceled.
To reset at a faster cruising speed,use one of
the following methods.
• Depress the accelerator pedal. When the ve-
hicle attains the preferred speed, push and re-
lease the COAST/SET switch.
• Push and hold the ACCEL/RES switch. When
the vehicle attains the preferred speed, release
the switch.
• Push, then quickly release the ACCEL/RES
switch. Each time you do this, the set speed will
increase by about 1 MPH (1.6 km/h) .
To reset at a slower cruising speed,use one
of the following methods.
• Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the vehicle
attains the preferred speed, push the COAST/
SET switch and release it.
• Push and hold the COAST/SET switch. Re-
lease the switch when the vehicle slows down
to the preferred speed.
• Push, then quickly release, the COAST/SET
switch. Each time you do this, the set speed will
decrease by about 1 MPH (1.6 km/h) .To resume the preset speed,push and re-
lease the ACCEL/RES switch. The vehicle will
resume the last set cruising speed when the
vehicle speed is over 25 MPH (40 km/h) .Vehicle range depends on a number of factors.
Actual vehicle range will vary depending upon:
• speed,
• vehicle load,
• electrical load from vehicle accessories,
• traffic and road conditions,
NISSAN recommends the following driving
habits to help maximize vehicle range:
Before driving:
• Follow recommended periodic maintenance.
• Keep tires inflated to correct pressure.
• Keep wheels in correct alignment.
• Pre-heat or pre-cool the interior cabin while the
vehicle is charging.
• Remove unnecessary cargo from the vehicle.
While driving:
• Drive in ECO mode
– In the ECO position more regenerative
brake is applied when the accelerator pedal
is released in comparison to the D (Drive)
position and more power is provided to the
Li-ion battery.
INCREASING POWER ECONOMY
Starting and driving5-17

•The predicted charging time displayed on
the meter and navigation system in-
creases when the Li-ion battery warmer
operates.
•Vehicle range may be substantially re-
duced in extremely cold conditions (for
example under -4°F (-20°C)) .
•Using the climate control system to heat
the cabin when outside temperature is
below 32°F (0°C) uses more electricity and
affects vehicle range more than when us-
ing the heater when the temperature is
above 32°F (0°C) .
•Climate control performance is reduced
when using the Climate Ctrl. Timer or Re-
mote Climate Control while the Li-ion bat-
tery warmer operates. Set only the charg-
ing timer [End Time] when charging in cold
weather. The vehicle automatically deter-
mines 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 bat-
tery is fully charged.FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK
To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply deicer
through the key hole. If the lock becomes frozen,
heat the key before inserting it into the key hole or
use the remote keyless entry keyfob.
ANTI-FREEZE
In the winter when it is possible that the outside
temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C) , check
the antifreeze to ensure proper winter protection.
For additional information, see “Cooling system”
in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
12-VOLT BATTERY
If the 12-volt battery is not fully charged during
extremely cold weather conditions, the 12-volt
battery fluid may freeze and damage the 12-volt
battery. To maintain maximum efficiency, the 12-
volt battery should be checked regularly. For ad-
ditional information, see “12-volt battery” in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system. Refill before
operating the vehicle. For details, see “Cooling
system” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
SUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide
superior performance on dry pavement. How-
ever, the performance of these tires will be sub-
stantially reduced in snowy and icy conditions. If
you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads,
NISSAN recommends the use of MUD & SNOW
or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels. Consult
a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for the tire type,
size, speed rating and availability information.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires
may be used. However, some U.S. states and
Canadian provinces prohibit their use. Check
local, state and provincial laws before installing
studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.
5-26Starting and driving

Tire chains may be used. For details, see “Tire
chains” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
• A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove ice
and snow from the windows and wiper blades.
• A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-drifts.
• Extra window washer fluid to refill the reservoir
tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
• Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain) ,
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have much less traction or “grip” under
these conditions. Try to avoid driving
on wet ice until the road is salted or
sanded.• Whatever the conditions, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow down
with care. If accelerating too fast, the
drive wheels will lose even more trac-
tion.
• Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
• Allow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
• Watch for slippery spots (glare ice) .
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of
ice is seen ahead, brake before reach-
ing it. Try not to brake while on the ice,
and avoid any sudden steering maneu-
vers.
• Do not use cruise control on slippery
roads.
FREEING A FROZEN CHARGE
PORT LID
When the charge port is frozen, melt the ice using
a hair dryer.
Starting and driving5-27

8 Maintenance and do-it yourself
Maintenance requirement..................8-2
Scheduled maintenance.................8-2
General maintenance...................8-2
Where to go for service.................8-2
General maintenance.....................8-2
Explanation of maintenance items...........8-2
Maintenance precautions..................8-5
Motor compartment check locations............8-7
Cooling system........................8-8
Checking coolant level..................8-9
Changing coolant.....................8-9
Reduction gear fluid.....................8-10
Brake fluid..........................8-10
Window washer fluid....................8-11
12-volt battery........................8-12
Jump starting.......................8-13
Windshield wiper blades..................8-13
Cleaning.........................8-13
Replacing.........................8-13Rear window wiper blade.................8-15
Brakes............................8-15
Brake pad wear warning................8-16
Fuses.............................8-16
Motor compartment...................8-16
Passenger compartment................8-18
Nissan Intelligent Key® battery replacement......8-19
Lights.............................8-21
Headlights........................8-22
Exterior and interior lights...............8-23
Wheels and tires......................8-26
Tire pressure.......................8-26
Tire labeling.......................8-28
Types of tires.......................8-30
Tire chains.......................
.8-31
Changing wheels and tires...............8-32
Emergency tire puncture repair kit..........8-34