traction control NISSAN LEAF 2014 1.G User Guide

USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory
WARNING
Do not connect, disconnect or operate
the USB device while driving. Doing so
can be a distraction. If distracted you
could lose control of your vehicle and
cause an accident or serious injury.
CAUTION
• Do not force the USB device into the
USB port. Inserting the USB device
tilted or up-side-down into the port
may damage the port. Make sure that
the USB device is connected correctly
into the USB port.
• Do not grab the USB port cover (if so
equipped) when pulling the USB de-
vice out of the port. This could damage
the port and the cover.
• Do not leave the USB cable in a place
where it can be pulled unintentionally.
Pulling the cable may damage the port.
The vehicle is not equipped with a USB device.
USB devices should be purchased separately as
necessary. This system cannot be used to format
USB devices. To format a USB device, use apersonal computer. In some states/area, the USB
device for the front seats plays only sound with-
out images for regulatory reasons, even when the
vehicle is parked.
This system supports various USB memory de-
vices, USB hard drives and iPod® players. Some
USB devices may not be supported by this sys-
tem.
Partitioned USB devices may not play correctly.
Some characters used in other languages (Chi-
nese, Japanese, etc.) may not appear properly in
the display. Using English language characters
with a USB device is recommended.
General notes for USB use:
Refer to your device manufacturer’s owner infor-
mation regarding the proper use and care of the
device.
Notes for iPod® use:
iPod® is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in
the U.S. and other countries.
• Improperly plugging in the iPod may cause a
checkmark to be displayed on and off (flicker-
ing) . Always make sure that the iPod is con-
nected properly.• An iPod® nano (1st Generation) may remain in
fast forward or rewind mode if it is connected
during a seek operation. In this case, please
manually reset the iPod.
• An iPod® nano (2nd Generation) will continue
to fast-forward or rewind if it is disconnected
during a seek operation.
• An incorrect song title may appear when the
Play Mode is changed while using an iPod®
nano (2nd Generation) .
• Audiobooks may not play in the same order as
they appear on an iPod®.
• Large video files cause slow responses in an
iPod®. The vehicle center display may momen-
tarily black out, but will soon recover.
• If an iPod® automatically selects large video
files while in the shuffle mode, the vehicle center
display may momentarily black out, but will soon
recover.
Bluetooth® streaming audio
• Some Bluetooth® audio devices may not be
recognized by the in-vehicle audio system.
• It is necessary to set up the wireless connection
between a compatible Bluetooth® audio device
and the in-vehicle Bluetooth® module before
using the Bluetooth® audio.
Heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems4-31

CAUTION
• Do not slide the shift lever while push-
ing the P position switch. This may
also damage the electric motor.
• When switching to the preferred posi-
tion by operating the shift lever, check
that the shift lever returns to the cen-
tral position by releasing your hand
from the lever. Holding the shift lever
in a mid-way position may also dam-
age the shift control system.
• Do not operate the shift lever while the
accelerator pedal is depressed, except
when switching to the ECO position.
This may cause a sudden start which
could result in an accident.
• The following operations are not al-
lowed because excessive force would
be applied to the traction motor and
this may result in damage to the ve-
hicle:
– Moving the shift lever to the R (Re-
verse) position when driving for-
ward
– Moving the shift lever to the D
(Drive) or ECO position when revers-
ing
If these operations are attempted, a
chime sounds and the vehicle shifts tothe N (Neutral) position.
P (Park):
Use this shift position when the vehicle is parked
or when placing the vehicle in the READY to drive
position. Make sure that the vehicle is completely
stopped.In order to switch to the P (Park)
position, press the P (Park) position switch
as shown in the illustration above once the
vehicle has come to a complete stop. If the
P (Park) position switch is pressed while
the vehicle is in motion, a chime sounds
and the current shift position is maintained.
After switching to the P (Park) position, apply theparking brake. When parking on a hill, apply the
parking brake first while keeping the foot brake
pedal depressed then push the P (Park) position
switch and place the vehicle in the P (Park)
position. See “Parking brake”.
NOTE:
•While the vehicle is stationary, if the shift
position is placed in any position other
than the P (Park) position when the power
switch is set to OFF, it will automatically
switch to the P (Park) position.
•If the P (Park) position switch is pressed
while sliding the shift lever, the shift posi-
tion will not switch to the P (Park) posi-
tion. When pressing the P (Park) position
switch be sure to first allow the shift lever
to return to its center position.
R (Reverse):
Use this position to back up. Make sure that the
vehicle is completely stopped before selecting
the R (Reverse) position.If the vehicle is
placed in the D (Drive) position while re-
versing, the chime will sound and the ve-
hicle will switch into the N (Neutral) posi-
tion.
Starting and driving5-13

Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6 MPH
(5 to 10 km/h) . The speed varies according to
road conditions.
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the actuator rapidly ap-
plies and releases hydraulic pressure. This action
is similar to pumping the brakes very quickly. You
may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a
noise from under the hood or feel a vibration from
the actuator when it is operating. This is normal
and indicates that the ABS is operating properly.
However, the pulsation may indicate that road
conditions are hazardous and extra care is re-
quired while driving.The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses
various sensors to monitor driver inputs and ve-
hicle motion. Under certain driving conditions,
the VDC system helps to perform the following
functions.
• Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel slip on
one slipping drive wheel so power is transferred
to a drive wheel on the same axle that is not
slipping.
• Controls brake pressure and traction motor out-
put to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle
speed (traction control function) .
• Controls brake pressure at individual wheels
and traction motor output to help the driver
maintain control of the vehicle in the following
conditions.
– understeer (vehicle tends to not follow the
steered path despite increased steering in-
put)
– oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to cer-
tain road or driving conditions) .
The VDC system can help the driver to maintain
control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss of
vehicle control in all driving situations.
When the VDC system operates, the
warning in the instrument panel flashes. When
the warning flashes, note the following items.• The road may be slippery or the system may
determine some action is required to help keep
the vehicle on the steered path.
• You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal and
hear a noise or vibration from under the hood.
This is normal and indicates that the VDC sys-
tem is working properly.
• Adjust your speed and driving according to the
road conditions.
See “VDC warning light” in the “Instruments and
controls” section and “VDC OFF indicator light”
in the “Instruments and controls” section.
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
warning illuminates in the lower display. The VDC
system automatically turns off when this warning
light is lit.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC
system. The VDC off indicator
illuminates
to indicate that the VDC system is off. When the
VDC switch is used to turn off the system, the
VDC system still operates to prevent one drive
wheel from slipping by transferring power to a
drive wheel that is not slipping. The
warn-
ing flashes if this occurs. All other VDC functions
are off and the
warning will not flash. The
VDC System is automatically reset to ON when
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
Starting and driving5-23

the power switch is placed in the OFF position
then back to the ON position.
The computer has a built-in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time you start the EV
(Electric Vehicle) and move the vehicle forward or
in reverse at a slow speed. When the self-test
occurs, you may hear a “clunk” noise and/or feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and is
not an indication of a malfunction.
WARNING
• The VDC system is designed to help
the driver maintain stability but does
not prevent accidents due to abrupt
steering operation at high speeds or
by careless or dangerous driving tech-
niques. Reduce vehicle speed and be
especially careful when driving and
cornering on slippery surfaces and al-
ways drive carefully.• Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as shock
absorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer
bars, bushings and wheels are not
NISSAN recommended for your ve-
hicle or are extremely deteriorated the
VDC system may not operate properly.
This could adversely affect vehicle
handling performance, and the
warning may flash ormay il-
luminate.
• If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not
NISSAN recommended or are ex-
tremely deteriorated, the VDC system
may not operate properly and
may
illuminate.
• If traction motor control related parts
are not NISSAN recommended or are
extremely deteriorated, the
may
illuminate.
• When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked cor-
ners, the VDC system may not operate
properly and the
warning may illu-
minate. Do not drive on these types of
roads.• When driving on an unstable surface
such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or
ramp, the
warning may illuminate.
This is not a malfunction. Restart the
EV (Electric Vehicle) system after driv-
ing onto a stable surface.
• If wheels or tires other than the
NISSAN recommended ones are used,
the VDC system may not operate prop-
erly and the
warning may illumi-
nate.
• The VDC system is not a substitute for
winter tires or tire chains on a snow
covered road.
5-24Starting 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 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

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..................9-10
Securing the load....................9-12
Loading tips.......................9-12
Measurement of weights................9-13
Towing a trailer........................9-13
Flat towing..........................9-13
Uniform tire quality grading.................9-14
Treadwear........................9-14
Traction AA, A, B and C................9-14
Temperature A, B and C................9-14
Reporting safety defects..................9-15
Telematics overview.....................9-15
Event Data Recorder (EDR)................9-17
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order information. . .9-18
Charging information....................9-19
Cold tire pressures
.....................9-21

TRACTION MOTOR SERIAL
NUMBER
The serial number of the traction motor is
stamped on the traction motor as shown.
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S CERTIFICATION
LABEL
The Federal/Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards (F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S.) certification
label is affixed as shown. This label contains
valuable vehicle information, such as: Gross Ve-
hicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) , Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) , month and year of
manufacture, Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) , etc. Review it carefully.
EMISSION CONTROL
INFORMATION LABEL
The emission control information label is at-
tached to the underside of the hood as shown in
the illustration.
9-8Technical and consumer information

DOT (Department Of Transportation) Quality
Grades: All passenger car tires must conform to
federal safety requirements in addition to these
grades.
Quality grades can be found where applicable on
the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
TREADWEAR
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified gov-
ernment test course. For example, a tire graded
150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times
as well on the government course as a tire graded
100. The relative performance of tires depends
upon actual conditions of their use however, and
may depart significantly from the norm due to
variations in driving habits, service practices and
differences in road characteristics and climate.
TRACTION AA, A, B AND C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
AA, A, B and C. Those grades represent the tire’s
ability to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on specified govern-
ment test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire
marked C may have poor traction performance.
WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
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.
UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
9-14Technical and consumer information

Smallchildren.................1-16
Three-pointtype...............1-11
Seat(s) , Seats...................1-2
Heatedseats.................2-47
Security system (NISSAN Vehicle
Immobilizer System) , EV system start.....2-38
Servicing climate control............4-15
Shifting......................5-11
Electric shift control system.........5-11
Shoulder belt height adjustment, For front
seats.......................1-13
Soft bottle holders................2-52
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......1-42
Steering .....................2-46
Heated steering wheel............2-46
Power steering system............5-19
Tilting steering column............3-20
Stoppingthevehicle ...............6-5
Storage......................2-51
Stowing golf bags................2-55
Sun visors....................3-20Supplemental air bag warning labels......1-48
Supplemental air bag warning light . . .1-48, 2-19
Supplemental restraint system.........1-35
Precautions on supplemental restraint
system.....................1-35
Switch ......................2-43
Autolight switch...............2-43
ChargetimerOFFswitch..........2-50
ECO switch..................2-47
Fog light switch................2-45
Hazard warning flasher switch........6-2
Headlight switch...............2-43
Power door lock switch............3-5
Rear window and outside mirror defroster
switch.....................2-42
Turnsignalswitch ..............2-45
Vehicle dynamic control (VDC) off
switch.....................2-49
T
Telematics overview...............9-15
Temperature....................2-7
Li-ion battery temperature gauge.......2-7
Theft (NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System) ,
traction motor start...............2-38
Tilt steering column...............3-20
Tire........................2-17Low tire pressure warning light.......2-17
Tires........................6-3
Flat tire.....................6-3
Low tire pressure warning system......5-2
Tire and Loading information label . . .8-27, 9-9
Tirechains ..................8-31
Tire dressing..................7-4
Tirepressure.................8-28
Tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS)..................5-2,6-3
Tire rotation..................8-32
Types of tires.................8-30
Uniform tire quality grading.........9-14
Wheels and tires...............8-26
Wheel/tire size.................9-6
Tools.......................6-12
Top........................1-21
Tether strap child restraints.........1-21
Towing......................9-13
Flattowing ..................9-13
Towing a trailer................9-13
Tow truck towing...............6-13
TPMS, Tire pressure monitoring system.....5-2
TPMS, Tire pressure warning system......6-3
Traction motor...................9-8
Traction motor serial number.........9-8
Trailer towing...................9-13
Transceiver, HomeLink® Universal.......2-59