cooling NISSAN LEAF 2013 1.G Owners Manual

RANGE
The distance you can drive the vehicle (range)
varies considerably depending upon available
charge, weather, temperature, usage, battery
age, topography, and driving style.
Vehicle range depends on a number of factors.
When the Li-ion battery is new, the estimated
vehicle range with a fully charged Li-ion battery is
approximately 100 miles (160 km) based on the
EPA laboratory test commonly called the LA4
mode drive cycle. This test represents city driving
conditions. Your actual range can vary, either
initially or as the battery ages and with use over
time. The majority of drivers will experience ve-
hicle ranges between 62 to 138 miles (99 to 222
km) based on the many factors that affect vehicle
range. SeeImprove driving range later in this
section for information of the factors that affect
vehicle range and how to use the vehicle to
maximize vehicle range.
IMPROVE DRIVING RANGE
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 regenerativebrake 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 (models with navigation sys-
tem) .
– The ECO position helps reduce power con- sumption by reducing acceleration when
compared to the same accelerator pedal
position in the D (Drive) position.
– The ECO position reduces the power pro- vided to the heater and air conditioner sys-
tem. Drive at a constant speed. Maintain cruising
speeds with a constant accelerator positions or
by using cruise control when appropriate.
Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Gently press and release the accelerator pedal for accelera-
tion and deceleration.
Drive at moderate speeds on the highway.
Avoid frequent stopping and braking. Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
Turn off the air conditioner/heater when it is not necessary.
Select a moderate temperature setting for heat- ing or cooling to help reduce power consump-
tion.
Use the air conditioner/heater and close win- dows to reduce drag when cruising at highway
speed.
Vehicle range may be substantially reduced in extremely cold conditions (for example -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 using the heater when
the temperature is above 32°F (0°C) .
EFFICIENT USE OF YOUR VEHICLE
EV OverviewEV-23

WARNING
If you use any medical electric devices, such as an implantable cardiac pace-
maker or an implantable cardiovascu-
lar defibrillator, check with the electric
medical device manufacturer concern-
ing the effects that charging may have
on implanted devices before starting
the charge operation. Charging may
affect the operation.
If you have an implantable cardiac pacemaker or an implantable cardio-
vascular defibrillator, while the Li-ion
battery is charging:
– Do not stay inside the vehicle.
– Do not go inside the vehicle, forexample to remove or place an item
in the passenger compartment.
– Do not open the rear hatch, for ex- ample to remove or place an item in
the cargo area.
Charging may affect the operation of
electric medical device and result in
serious personal injury or death. Make sure there is no water or foreign
materials in the charge port, charge
connector or electrical plug, and that
they are not damaged or affected by
rust or corrosion. If any of these con-
ditions are noticeable, do not charge
the Li-ion battery. This may result in a
short circuit or electric shock and
could cause a fire which may result in
serious personal injury or death.
To avoid serious personal injury or death when the Li-ion battery is charg-
ing, be aware of the following precau-
tions.
– Do not touch the metal contacts ofthe charge port, charge connector
or electrical plug.
– Do not touch the vehicle and char- ger when there is lightning. A light-
ning strike may back feed into the
charger causing damage and pos-
sible personal injury or death.
Make sure the charge connector is re- moved from the charge port before
starting your vehicle. If the charge con-
nector is only partially engaged and
the connector latch is unlocked, it is
possible to place the EV (Electric Ve-
hicle) in the READY to drive position. Do not plug in or unplug the plug with
wet hands and do not stand in water,
liquid or snow. This may cause an elec-
tric shock which may result in serious
personal injury or death.
Do not disassemble or modify the charge port or the EVSE (Electric Ve-
hicle Supply Equipment) . This may
cause a fire.
If you notice an unusual odor or smoke coming from the vehicle, stop charging
immediately.
Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewelry or clothing to come into
contact with, or get caught in, the trac-
tion motor cooling fan. The cooling fan
can start at any time during charging.
PRECAUTIONS ON CHARGING
CH-2Charging

Pressing the brake pedal when thepower switch position is not in the ON
or READY to drive position and/or low
brake fluid level may increase the
stopping distance and braking will re-
quire greater pedal effort as well as
pedal travel.
If the brake fluid level is below the minimum or MIN mark on the brake
fluid reservoir, do not drive until the
brake system has been checked at a
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer.
Electric shift control system
warning light
This light illuminates to warn when a malfunction
occurs in the electric shift control system. When
the master warning illuminates, the chime sounds
and the message, “When parked apply parking
brake”, is displayed on the dot matrix liquid crystal
display.
When the power switch is in the OFF position,
the chime sounds continuously. Make sure the
parking brake is applied.
Have the system checked by a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer.
EV system warning
light
This light illuminates if there is a malfunction in the
following systems. Contact a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer.
Traction motor and inverter system
Charge port or on board charger
Li-ion battery system
Cooling system
Shift control system
Emergency shut off system is activated. See
Emergency shut off system in theEV over-
view section.
Headlight warning
light
This light illuminates if the LED headlights are
malfunctioning. Contact a NISSAN certified
LEAF dealer.
Low battery charge warning
light
This light illuminates when the available Li-ion
battery charge is getting low. Charge as soon as
it is possible, preferably before the Li-ion battery
available charge gauge reaches the bottom line.
NOTE:
The low battery charge warning light turns
off immediately before the Li-ion battery is
completely discharged and the vehicle will
stop. If the Li-ion battery becomes com-
pletely discharged, the vehicle must be
charged in order to be driven.
Low tire pressure warning
light
Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) that monitors the tire
pressure of all tires.
The low tire pressure warning light warns of low
tire pressure or indicates that the TPMS is not
functioning properly.
After the power switch is placed in the ON posi-
tion, this light illuminates for about 1 second and
then turns off.
Low tire pressure warning:
If the vehicle is being driven with low tire pres-
sure, the warning light will illuminate. A CHECK
TIRE PRESSURE warning also appears on the
dot matrix liquid crystal display.
2-16Instruments and controls

Adjust the air flow direction of the vents by mov-
ing the knob (up/down, left/right) until the desired
position is achieved.
WARNING
The air conditioning cooling function operates only when the power switch
is in the ON position or when the
READY to drive indicator light is ON.
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. 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.
Do not use the recirculation mode for long periods as it may cause the inte-
rior air to become stale and the win-
dows to fog up.
The climate control system (air conditioner and
heater functions) can be operated when the
READY to drive indicator light is illuminated.
However, while charging, the climate control sys-
tem can be used when the power switch is in the
ON position. The fan, heater and air conditioning can be turned
on manually, using the timer function and using
the remote climate control function.
These functions operate in the following condi-
tions.
Passenger side
CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM
Heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems4-7

AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL
(MODELS WITHOUT NAVIGATION
SYSTEM)
1.(fan speed control) dial
2.
(intake air control) button
3.
(front defroster) button 4. Climate Ctrl. display
5.
(rear window defroster) button (See
Rear window and outside mirror defroster
switch in theInstruments and controls
section.)
6. Temperature control dial
7. AUTO climate control ON button 8. A/C (air conditioner) ON·OFF button
9. MODE (manual air flow control) button
10. HEAT button
11. A/C-Heater ON·OFF button
Automatic operation (AUTO)
The AUTO mode may be used year-round as the
system automatically controls constant tempera-
ture, air flow distribution and fan speed.
To turn off the climate control, push the A/C-
Heater ON·OFF button.
The same operating mode (Heater or A/C) that
was active when the system is turned off is active
when system is turned back on.
While operating the climate control in the AUTO
mode, selecting any other climate control button
de-activates the AUTO mode and activates
manual mode.
Cooling and/or dehumidified heating:
The dehumidified heating mode can be used to
keep the windows from fogging. In this mode, the
heat pump compressor is used in A/C mode for
dehumidifying the air instead of heating it. The
PTC heater is also used in conjunction to heat the
air. This mode will increase energy consumption
and therefore reduce range.
4-10Heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems

AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL
(MODELS WITH NAVIGATION
SYSTEM)
1. Temperature control button
2. HEAT button
3. Climate Ctrl. Timer indicator4.
(front defroster) button
5.
(fan speed control) button
6.
(rear window defroster) button (See
Rear window and outside mirror defroster
switch in theInstruments and controls
section.)
7.
(intake air control) button 8. A/C-Heater ON·OFF button
9. AUTO climate control ON button
10. MODE (manual air flow control) button
11. A/C (air conditioner) ON·OFF button
Automatic operation (AUTO)
The AUTO mode may be used year-round as the
system automatically controls constant tempera-
ture, air flow distribution and fan speed.
To turn off the climate control, push the A/C-
Heater ON·OFF button.
The same operating mode (Heater or A/C) that
was active when the system is turned off is active
when system is turned back on.
While operating the climate control in the AUTO
mode, selecting any other climate control button
de-activates the AUTO mode and activates
manual mode.
Cooling and/or dehumidified heating:
The dehumidified heating mode can be used to
keep the windows from fogging. In this mode, the
heat pump compressor is used in A/C mode for
dehumidifying the air instead of heating it. The
PTC heater is also used in conjunction to heat the
air. This mode will increase energy consumption
and therefore reduce range.
Heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems4-17

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 thevehicle is charging.
Remove unnecessary cargo from the vehicle.
While driving:
Drive in ECO mode – In the ECO position more regenerativebrake 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.
– The ECO position helps reduce power con- sumption by reducing acceleration when compared to the same accelerator pedal
position in the D (Drive ) position.
– The ECO position reduces the power pro- vided to the heater and air conditioner sys-
tem.
Drive at a constant speed. Maintain cruising speeds with a constant accelerator positions or
by using cruise control when appropriate.
Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Gently press and release the accelerator pedal for accelera-
tion and deceleration.
Drive at moderate speeds on the highway.
Avoid frequent stopping and braking. Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
Turn off the air conditioner/heater when it is not necessary.
Select a moderate temperature setting for heat- ing or cooling to help reduce power consump-
tion.
Use the air conditioner/heater and close win- dows to reduce drag when cruising at highway
speed.
Release the accelerator pedal to slow down and do not apply the brakes when traffic and
road conditions allow. – This vehicle is equipped with a regenerative
brake system. The primary purpose of re-
generative brake system is to provide some
power to recharge the Li-ion battery and
extend driving range. A secondary benefit is
“engine braking” that operates based on
Li-ion battery conditions. In the D (Drive)
position, when the accelerator pedal is re-
leased, the regenerative brake system pro-
vides some deceleration and some power 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
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

To start your EV system with a booster battery,
the instructions and precautions below must be
followed.
Jump starting provides power to the 12-volt sys-
tem to allow the electrical systems to operate.
The electrical systems must be operating to allow
the Li-ion battery to be charged. Jump starting
does not charge the Li-ion battery. The Li-ion
battery must be charged before the vehicle can
be driven.
WARNING
If done incorrectly, jump starting can lead to a 12-volt battery explosion, re-
sulting in severe injury or death. It
could also damage your vehicle.
Explosive hydrogen gas is always present in the vicinity of the 12-volt
battery. Keep all sparks and flames
away from the 12-volt battery.
Do not allow battery fluid to come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing or
painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a cor-
rosive sulfuric acid solution that can
cause severe burns. If the fluid comes
into contact with anything, immedi-
ately flush the contacted area with
water. Keep the 12-volt battery out of the
reach of children.
The booster battery must be rated at 12 volt. Use of an improperly rated
battery can damage your vehicle.
Whenever working on or near a 12-volt battery, always wear suitable eye pro-
tectors (for example, goggles or indus-
trial safety spectacles) and remove
rings, metal bands, or any other jew-
elry. Do not lean over the 12-volt bat-
tery when jump starting.
Do not attempt to jump start a frozen battery. It could explode and cause
serious injury.
Your vehicle has an automatic cooling fan. It could come on at any time. Keep
hands and other objects away from it.
WARNING
Always follow the instructions below. Failure to do so could result in damage
to the DC/DC converter and cause per-
sonal injury.
CAUTION
Do not attempt to perform a jump start on the 12-volt battery at the same time
that the Li-ion battery is being
charged. Doing so may damage the
vehicle or charging equipment and
could cause an injury.
LEAF cannot be used as a booster ve- hicle because it cannot supply enough
power to start a gasoline engine. How-
ever, a gasoline engine vehicle can be
used to jump start LEAF’s 12-volt
battery.
JUMP STARTING
6-10In case of emergency

Never tow a vehicle using the vehicletie down hook or recovery hook.
Always pull the cable straight out from the front of the vehicle. Never pull on
the vehicle at an angle.
Pulling devices should be routed so they do not touch any part of the sus-
pension, steering, brake or cooling
systems.
Pulling devices such as ropes or can- vas straps are not recommended for
use in vehicle towing or recovery.
Rocking a stuck vehicle
If the vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc., try
to free it by following the procedure below.
1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system.
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.
3. Turn the steering wheel left and right to clear an area around the front tires. 4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and
backward.
Shift back and forth between the R (Reverse) and D (Drive) positions.
Apply the accelerator as little as possible to maintain the rocking motion.
Release the accelerator pedal before shifting between R (Reverse) and D (Drive) .
Do not spin the tires above 35 MPH (55 km/h) .
5. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few tries, contact a professional towing service to re-
move the vehicle.
6-16In case of emergency