coolant NISSAN LEAF 2013 1.G Owners Manual

1. Brake fluid reservoir (P 8-10)
2. 12-volt battery (P 8-11)
3. Fuse/fusible link holder (P 8-16)
4. Fuse/fusible link holder (P 8-16)
5. Coolant tank cap (P 8-7)
6. Window washer fluid reservoir (P 8-10)
7. Fuse/fusible link holder (P 8-16)
MOTOR COMPARTMENT
0-10Illustrated table of contents

High beam indicator light
(blue)
This light illuminates when the headlight high
beam is on and goes out when the low beam is
selected.
Plug in indicator
light
This light illuminates while charge connector is
connected to the vehicle and blinks during charg-
ing.
NOTE:
If the charge connector is connected to the
vehicle, the power switch can not be placed
in the READY to drive position.
Power limitation indicator light
When the power limitation indicator light is illu-
minated, the power provided to the traction motor
is reduced. Therefore the vehicle is not as re-
sponsive when the accelerator is depressed
while the power limitation light is illuminated.
When this light comes on, the warning display
appears on the navigation display and the dot
matrix liquid crystal display. Follow the instruc-
tions provided on the navigation display.This light illuminates in the following conditions.
Li-ion battery available charge is extremely low
Li-ion battery temperature is very low (approxi-
mately 4°F (20°C)
When the temperature of EV system is high (motor, inverter, coolant system, Li-ion battery
etc.)
When the EV system has a malfunction.
If the low battery charge warning light is illumi-
nated, charge the Li-ion battery as soon as pos-
sible.
If this indicator illuminates because the Li-ion
battery is cold due to low outside temperatures,
move the vehicle to a warmer location. The Li-ion
battery temperature may be increased by charg-
ing the Li-ion battery.
If the light illuminates when the EV system be-
comes hot due to continuous hill climbing either
continue driving at a slower safe speed, or stop
the vehicle in a safe location. If this indicator does
not turn off, contact a NISSAN certified dealer.
If the indicator illuminate when a part in the EV
system has malfunctioned. If the indicator illumi-
nates in a situation other than those described
above, or if it does not turn off, there may be a system malfunction. Contact a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer.
WARNING
Power limitation mode can result in re-
duced power and vehicle speed. The re-
duced speed may be lower than other
traffic, which could increase the chance
of a collision. Be especially careful when
driving. If the vehicle cannot maintain a
safe driving speed, pull to the side of the
road in a safe area. Charge the Li-ion
battery if the charge is low or allow the
Li-ion battery to cool.
READY to drive indicator
light
The READY to drive indicator light illuminates
when the EV (Electric Vehicle) System is pow-
ered and the vehicle may be driven.
The READY to drive indicator light will turn off in
the following conditions.
Certain EV (Electric Vehicle) system malfunc- tions.
The READY to drive indicator light turns off immediately before the Li-ion battery is com-
pletely discharged If the Li-ion battery becomes
completely discharged, the vehicle must be
2-20Instruments and controls

5 Starting and driving
Precautions when starting and driving...........5-2
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) .......5-2
Avoiding collision and rollover ..............5-5
Off-road recovery .................... .5-5
Rapid air pressure loss ................. .5-6
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ...........5-6
Push-button power switch ................. .5-7
NISSAN Intelligent Key® system ............5-7
Operating range for EV (Electric Vehicle) start
function .......................... .5-7
Power switch operation ................ .5-8
Power switch positions ................. .5-8
Emergency EV (Electric Vehicle) shut off .......5-9
NISSAN Intelligent Key® battery discharge ......5-9
Before starting the EV (Electric Vehicle) system . . . .5-10
Starting the EV (Electric Vehicle) system ........5-10
Driving vehicle ....................... .5-11
Electric shift control system ..............5-11
Parking brake ....................... .5-14
Cruise control ....................... .5-15Precautions on cruise control
.............5-15
Cruise control operation ................5-15
Increasing power economy ................5-17
Parking/parking on hills .................. .5-18
Power steering system .................. .5-19
Brake system ........................ .5-19
Brake precautions ................... .5-19
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ...........5-21
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system .........5-22
Hill start assist system .................. .5-24
Cold weather driving ................... .5-24
Freeing a frozen door lock ...............5-25
Antifreeze ........................ .5-25
12-volt battery ..................... .5-25
Draining of coolant water ................5-25
Tire equipment ..................... .5-25
Special
winter equipment .............. .5-26
Driving on snow or ice ................ .5-26
Freeing a frozen charge port lid ............5-26

4. Push the power switch while depressing thebrake 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 dot matrix liquid crystal dis-
play 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 Intelli-
gent Key again.
If the Intelligent Key system battery dis-
charge indicator appears on the dot ma-
trix liquid crystal display, replace the bat-
tery as soon as possible. See Intelligent
key battery replacement in theMainte-
nance 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.
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 theInstruments and controls sec-
tion.) 1. Confirm the parking brake is applied.
2. Confirm that the vehicle is in the P (Park)
position.
The EV (Electric Vehicle) is designed not to
operate unless the shift lever is in the P (Park)
or N (Neutral) positions.
The Intelligent Key must be carried with
you when operating the power switch.
3. Depress the brake pedal and push the power switch to place the EV (Electric Vehicle) sys-
tem in the READY to drive position.
To place the vehicle in the READY to drive
position immediately, push and release the
power switch while depressing the brake
pedal with the power switch in any position.
The READY to drive indicator light
in the
meter illuminates.
4. To stop the EV (Electric Vehicle) system, push the P (Park) position switch on the shift lever,
and push the power switch to the OFF
position.
BEFORE STARTING THE EV
(ELECTRIC VEHICLE) SYSTEM STARTING THE EV (ELECTRIC
VEHICLE) SYSTEM
5-10Starting and driving

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
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 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.
ANTIFREEZE
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, see12-volt batteryin 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 Coolingsystem
in theMaintenance 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.
Tire chains may be used. For details, see Tire
chains in theMaintenance and do-it-yourself
section.
Starting and driving5-25

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 ....................... .8-7
Checking coolant level ................. .8-8
Changing coolant .................... .8-9
Reduction gear fluid .................... .8-9
Brake fluid ......................... .8-10
Window washer fluid ................... .8-10
12-volt battery ....................... .8-11
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 ................8-15
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

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

When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions that should be closely observed.
WARNING
The EV (Electric Vehicle) 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.
Obey the labels that are attached to
the vehicle.
Never disassemble, remove or replace high-voltage parts and cables as well
as their connectors. High-voltage
cables are colored orange.
Disassembling, removing or replacing those parts or cables can cause severe
burns or electric shock that may result
in serious injury or death. The vehicle
high voltage system has no user ser-
viceable parts. Take your vehicle to the
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer for any
necessary maintenance. Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
chock the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. Push the P (Park)
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 mov-
ing parts.
Make sure that the power switch is in the OFF or LOCK position when per-
forming any part replacement or re-
pairs.
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 whenever you work on your vehicle.
Never get under the vehicle while it is supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
Keep smoking materials, flames and sparks away from the 12-volt battery.
CAUTION
Do not work under the hood while the motor compartment is hot. Push the
power switch in the OFF position and
wait until it cools down.
Avoid direct contact with used coolant. Improperly disposed coolant and/or
other vehicle fluids can damage the
environment. Always conform to local
regulations for the disposal of vehicle
fluids.
Never connect or disconnect the bat- tery or any transistorized component
while the power switch is in the ON
position.
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto- matic cooling fan. It may come on at
any time without warning, even if the
power switch is not in the ACC, ON or
READY to drive position. To avoid in-
jury, always disconnect the negative
12-volt battery cable before working
near the fan.
Before performing any electrical main- tenance work on the vehicle such as
the battery, fuses or bulb replacement,
confirm the following:
– The charge connector is removedfrom the vehicle.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it yourself8-5

1. Brake fluid reservoir
2. 12-volt battery
3. Fuse/fusible link holder
4. Fuse/fusible link holder5. Coolant tank cap
6. Window washer fluid reservoir
7. Fuse/fusible link holderThe cooling system is filled at the factory with a
pre-diluted mixture of 50% genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) and 50%
water to provide year-round anti-freeze and cool-
ant protection. The antifreeze solution contains
rust and corrosion inhibitors. Additional cooling
system additives are not necessary.
WARNING
Never remove the coolant tank cap when the motor compartment is hot.
Wait until the motor compartment cool
down.
The coolant tank is equipped with a special type coolant tank cap. To pre-
vent damage to the motor compart-
ment, use only a Genuine NISSAN
coolant tank cap.
CAUTION
Never use any additives in the coolant such as radiator sealer in the cooling
system. This may cause damage to
electrical equipment such as the mo-
tor and inverter.
MOTOR COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS COOLING SYSTEM
Maintenance and do-it yourself8-7

When adding or replacing coolant, besure to use only a Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or
equivalent. Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) is pre-
diluted to provide antifreeze protec-
tion to 34°F (37°C) . If additional
freeze protection is needed due to the
weather conditions where you operate
your vehicle, add Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
concentrate following the directions
on the container. If and equivalent
coolant other than Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) is
used, follow the coolant manufac-
ture’s instructions to maintain mini-
mum antifreeze protection to 34°F
(37°C) . The use of other types of
coolant solutions other than Genuine
NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant
(blue) or equivalent may damage the
cooling system. The life expectancy of the factory-fill
coolant is 125,000 miles (200,000 km)
or 15 years. Mixing any other type of
coolant other than Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) ,
including Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (green) , or the use
of non-distilled water will reduce the
life expectancy of the factory-filled
coolant. Refer to the NISSAN Service
and Maintenance Guide for more de-
tails.
CHECKING COOLANT LEVEL
Check the coolant level in the reservoir when
the high voltage parts are cold. If the coolant
level is below the MIN level
2, open the reservoir
cap and add coolant up to the MAX level
1.If
the reservoir is empty, check the coolant level in
the coolant tank when the high voltage parts
are cold. If there is insufficient coolant in the
coolant tank, fill the coolant tank with coolant up
to the reservoir cap opening and also add it to the
reservoir up to the MAX level
1.
Tighten the cap securely after adding coolant.
8-8Maintenance and do-it yourself