air condition NISSAN LEAF 2013 1.G Owners Manual

Your new NISSAN has been designed to have
minimum maintenance requirements with long
service intervals to save you both time and
money. However, some day-to-day and regular
maintenance is essential to maintain your NIS-
SAN’s fine mechanical condition, as well as its
EV (Electric Vehicle) system performance.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that
the scheduled maintenance, as well as general
maintenance, is performed.
As the vehicle owner, you are the only one who
can ensure that your vehicle receives the proper
maintenance care. You are a vital link in the main-
tenance chain.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
For your convenience, both required and optional
scheduled maintenance items are described and
listed in your “NISSAN Service and Maintenance
Guide”. You must refer to that guide to ensure
that necessary maintenance is performed on your
NISSAN at regular intervals.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
General maintenance includes those items which
should be checked during normal day-to-day op-
eration. They are essential for proper vehicle op-eration. It is your responsibility to perform these
procedures regularly as prescribed.
Performing general maintenance checks requires
minimal mechanical skill and only a few general
automotive tools.
These checks or inspections can be done by
yourself, a qualified technician or, if you prefer, a
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer.
WHERE TO GO FOR SERVICE
If maintenance service is required or your vehicle
appears to malfunction, have the systems
checked and serviced by a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer.
NISSAN technicians are well-trained specialists
and are kept up-to-date with the latest service
information through technical bulletins, service
tips, and in-dealership information systems. They
are completely qualified to work on NISSAN ve-
hicles
before work begins.
You can be confident that a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer’s service department performs the
best job to meet the maintenance requirements
on your vehicle — in a reliable and economical
way. During the normal day-to-day operation of the
vehicle, general maintenance should be per-
formed regularly as prescribed in this section. If
you detect any unusual sounds, vibrations or
smell, be sure to check for the cause or have a
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer do it promptly. In
addition, you should notify a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer if you think that repairs are required.
When performing any checks or maintenance
work, see
Maintenance precautions.EXPLANATION OF MAINTENANCE
ITEMS
Additional information on the following
items with “*” is found later in this section.
Outside vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
performed from time to time, unless otherwise
specified.
Doors and motor hood: Check that all doors
and the motor hood operate properly. Also en-
sure that all latches lock securely. Lubricate
hinges, latches, latch pins, rollers and links if
necessary. Make sure that the secondary latch
keeps the motor hood from opening when the
primary latch is released.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT GENERAL MAINTENANCE
8-2Maintenance and do-it yourself

Seat belts:Check that all parts of the seat belt
system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly,
and are installed securely. Check the belt web-
bing 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 suffi-
cient 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 (for serviceable 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.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery discharge
and potential no-start conditions such as:
1. Installation or extended use of electronic ac-
cessories that consume battery power when
the engine is not running (Phone chargers,
GPS, DVD players, etc.)
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to be
charged to maintain battery health.
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 thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, being careful to
clean those areas where mud and dirt may accu-
mulate. For additional information, see Cleaning
exterior in theAppearance and care section.
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there is
an adequate amount of fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it yourself

6. If the fuse is openA, replace it with a new
fuse
B.
7. If a new fuse also opens, have the electrical system checked, and if necessary, repaired by
a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer.
Fusible links
If any electrical equipment does not operate and
the fuses are in good condition, check the fusible
links in the holders
1,2and3. If any of these
fusible links are melted, replace only with genuine
NISSAN parts. For checking and replacing the fusible links in the
holders
1,2and3, contact a NISSAN certi-
fied LEAF dealer.
Maintenance and do-it yourself8-17

3103 means the 31st week of 2003. If these
numbers are missing, then look on the other
sidewall of the tire.
3Tire ply composition and material
The number of layers or plies of rubber-coated
fabric in the tire.
Tire manufacturers also must indicate the ma-
terials in the tire, which include steel, nylon,
polyester, and others.
4Maximum permissible inflation pressure
This number is the greatest amount of air
pressure that should be put in the tire. Do not
exceed the maximum permissible inflation
pressure.
5Maximum load rating
This number indicates the maximum load in
kilograms and pounds that can be carried by
the tire. When replacing the tires on the ve-
hicle, always use a tire that has the same load
rating as the factory installed tire.
6Term of “tubeless” or “tube type”
Indicates whether the tire requires an inner
tube (“tube type”) or not (“tubeless”) .
7The word “radial”
The word “radial” is shown, if the tire has radial
structure.
8Manufacturer or brand name
Manufacturer or brand name is shown.
Other tire-related terminology:
In addition to the many terms that are defined
throughout this section, Intended Outboard
Sidewall is (1) the sidewall that contains a white-
wall, bears white lettering or bears manufacturer,
brand and/or model name molding that is higher
or deeper than the same molding on the other
sidewall of the tire, or (2) the outward facing
sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a par-
ticular side that must always face outward when
mounted on a vehicle.
TYPES OF TIRES
WARNING
When changing or replacing tires, be sure all four tires are of the same type
(Example: Summer, All Season or
Snow) and construction. A NISSAN
certified LEAF dealer may be able to
help you with information about tire
type, size, speed rating and availabil-
ity. Replacement tires may have a lower
speed rating than the factory equipped
tires, and may not match the potential
maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed
the maximum speed rating of the tire.
Replacing tires with those not origi- nally specified by NISSAN could affect
the proper operation of the TPMS.
For additional information regarding tires, refer to “Important Tire Safety
Information” (US) or “Tire Safety Infor-
mation” (Canada) in the Warranty In-
formation Booklet.
All season tires
NISSAN specifies all season tires on some mod-
els to provide good performance all year, includ-
ing snowy and icy road conditions. All Season
tires are identified by ALL SEASON and/or M&S
(Mud and Snow) on the tire sidewall. Snow tires
have better snow traction than All Season tires
and may be more appropriate in some areas.
Summer tires
NISSAN specifies summer tires on some models
to provide superior performance on dry roads.
Summer tire performance is substantially re-
duced in snow and ice. Summer tires do not have
the tire traction rating M&S on the tire sidewall.
8-30Maintenance and do-it yourself

The original tires have built-in treadwear indicators. When wear indicators
are visible, the tire(s) should be re-
placed.
Tires degrade with age and use. Have tires, over 6 years old checked by a
qualified technician, because some
tire damage may not be obvious. Re-
place the tires as necessary to prevent
tire failure and possible personal in-
jury.
For additional information regarding tires, refer to “Important Tire Safety
Information” (US) or “Tire Safety Infor-
mation” (Canada) in the Warranty In-
formation Booklet.
Replacing wheels and tires
When replacing a tire, use the same size, tread
design, speed rating and load carrying capacity
as originally equipped. See Specificationsin
the Technical and consumer information sec-
tion for recommended types and sizes of tires
and wheels.
WARNING
The use of tires other than those rec- ommended or the mixed use of tires of
different brands, construction (bias,
bias-belted or radial) , or tread patterns
can adversely affect the ride, braking,
handling, ground clearance, body-to-
tire clearance, tire chain clearance,
speedometer calibration, headlight
aim and bumper height. Some of these
effects may lead to accidents and
could result in serious personal injury.
If your vehicle was originally equipped with 4 tires that were the same size
and you are only replacing 2 of the 4
tires, install the new tires on the rear
axle. Placing new tires on the front
axle may cause loss of vehicle control
in some driving conditions and cause
an accident and personal injury. If the wheels are changed for any rea-
son, always replace with wheels which
have the same off-set dimension.
Wheels of a different off-set could
cause premature tire wear, degrade
vehicle handling characteristics
and/or interference with the brake
discs. Such interference can lead to
decreased braking efficiency and/or
early brake pad/shoe wear. See
Wheels and tires in theTechnical
and consumer information
section of
this manual for wheel off-set dimen-
sions.
When a wheel is replaced, the TPMS will not function and the low tire pres-
sure warning light will flash for ap-
proximately 1 minute. The light will re-
main on after 1 minute. Contact your
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer as soon
as possible for tire replacement
and/or system resetting.
Replacing tires with those not origi- nally specified by NISSAN could affect
the proper operation of the TPMS.
Do not install a damaged or deformed wheel or tire even if it has been re-
paired. Such wheels or tires could
have structural damage and could fail
without warning.
Maintenance and do-it yourself8-33

9 Technical and consumer information
Capacities and recommended lubricants.........9-2
Air conditioning system refrigerant and lubricant
recommendations .................... .9-3
Specifications ........................ .9-4
Charging system .................... .9-4
Motor ........................... .9-6
Wheels and tires .................... .9-6
Dimensions and weights ................ .9-6
When traveling or registering your vehicle in another
country ............................ .9-7
Vehicle identification .................... .9-7
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate .......9-7
Vehicle identification number (chassis number). . . .9-7
Traction motor serial number ..............9-8
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S certification label ........9-8
Emission control information label ...........9-8
Tire and Loading Information label ...........9-9
Air conditioner specification label ............9-9
Installing front license plate .................9-9Vehicle loading information
.................9-10
Terms .......................... .9-10
Vehicle load capacity ................. .9-11
Securing the load ................... .9-12
Loading tips ...................... .9-12
Measurement of weights ................9-13
Towing a trailer ....................... .9-13
Flat towing ......................... .9-14
Uniform tire quality grading .................9-14
Treadwear ....................... .9-14
Traction AA, A, B and C ................9-14
Temperature A, B and C ................9-15
Reporting safety defects ................. .9-15
Telematics overview .................... .9-16
Event Data Recorder (EDR) ................9-18
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order information. . .9-18
Charging information ................... .9-20
Cold tire pressures .................... .9-22

The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be slightly different. When refilling, follow the procedure that
is described in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (approximate)Recommended specifications
US measure Imp measure Liter
Cooling system With reservoir 5-5/8 qt 4-5/8 qt 5.3
Pre-diluted Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant
(blue) or equivalent
Reservoir 1/2 qt 1/2 qt 0.5
Reduction gear fluid 1-1/2 qt 1-1/4 qt 1.4 Genuine NISSAN Matic Fluid S*1
Brake fluid Refill to the proper oil level according to
the instructions in the “Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*2 or
equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease —— — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant —— — HFC-134a (R-134a)*3
Air conditioning system lubricants —— — NISSAN A/C System Oil ND-OIL11 or equivalent
*1: Use only Genuine NISSAN Matic Fluid S. Using reduction gear fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Matic Fluid S will damage the re-
duction gear, which is not covered by the NISSAN new vehicle limited warranty.
*2: Available in mainland US through a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer.
*3: For additional information, see Vehicle identificationfor air conditioner specification label.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
REFRIGERANT AND LUBRICANT
RECOMMENDATIONS
The air conditioning system in your
NISSAN vehicle must be charged with the
refrigerant, HFC-134a (R-134a) and the oil,
compressor oil ND-OIL11 or the equiva-
lents.
CAUTION
The use of any other refrigerant or oil will
cause severe damage to the air condi-
tioning system and will require the re-
placement of all air conditioner system
components.
The refrigerant, HFC-134a (R-134a) , in your
NISSAN vehicle will not harm the earth’s ozone
layer. Although this refrigerant does not affect the
earth’s atmosphere, certain governmental regu-
lations require the recovery and recycling of any
refrigerant during automotive air conditioning
system service. A NISSAN certified LEAF dealer
has the trained technicians and equipment
needed to recover and recycle your air condition-
ing system refrigerant.
Contact a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer when
servicing your air conditioning system.
Technical and consumer information9-3

TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION
LABEL
The cold tire pressure is shown on the Tire and
Loading Information label affixed to the driver’s
side center pillar as shown.
AIR CONDITIONER SPECIFICATION
LABEL
The air conditioner specification label is attached
to the underside of the hood as shown in the
illustration.Perform the following procedure to mount the
license plate.
Before mounting the license plate, confirm that
the following parts are enclosed in the plastic
bag.
License plate bracket
Screw ×2
1. Adjust the license plate bracket at the location
(small dimples) .
2. To determine where to drill the hole, mark along both sides of the mounting holes and
license plate screw holes using a felt-tip pen.
INSTALLING FRONT LICENSE PLATE
Technical and consumer information9-9

TEMPERATURE A, B AND C
The temperature grades A (the highest) , B, and
C, representing the tire’s resistance to the gen-
eration of heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled conditions on a
specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause the material of the
tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and exces-
sive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
The grade C corresponds to a level of perfor-
mance which all passenger car tires must meet
under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels
of performance on the laboratory test wheel than
the minimum required by law.
WARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is es-
tablished for a tire that is properly in-
flated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, under-inflation, or excessive load-
ing, either separately or in combination,
can cause heat build-up and possible tire
failure. For USA
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately inform the Na-
tional Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) in addition to notifying NISSAN.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may
open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a
recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA
cannot become involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, or NISSAN.
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY:
1-800-424-9153); go to http://
www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator,
NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington,
D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other informa-
tion about motor vehicle safety from http://
www.safercar.gov.
You may notify NISSAN by contacting our Con-
sumer Affairs Department, toll-free, at 1-877-
NOGASEV (1-877-664-2738) . For Canada
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately inform Transport
Canada in addition to notifying NISSAN.
If Transport Canada receives complaints, it may
open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may request
a recall campaign. However, Transport Canada
cannot become involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, or NISSAN.
You may contact Transport Canada’s Defect In-
vestigations and Recall Division toll free at
1-800-333-0510. You may also report safety
defects online at; https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/
Saf-Sec-Sur/7/PCDB-BDPP/Index.aspx.
Additional information concerning motor vehicle
safety may be obtained from Transport Canada’s
Road Safety Information Centre at
1-800-333-0371 or online at www.tc.gc.ca/
roadsafety (English speakers) or www.tc.gc.ca/
securiteroutiere (French speakers) .
To notify NISSAN of any safety concerns please
contact our Consumer Information Centre toll
free at 1-800-387-0122.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
Technical and consumer information9-15