Some Nissan LEAFs Recalled as Battery Could Melt When Fast Charging
Nissan LEAF owners have it harder than most when it comes to fast charging due to the very small number of public DC chargers offering CHAdeMO connectors. They also have to be wary of the high-voltage battery which could overheat in some cases, apparently.
A recall has just been announced for select 2019-2020 LEAF models including 5,501 units in Canada.
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Transport Canada says the high-voltage battery could create smoke or heat, which can melt or damage the battery and nearby parts. A fire could start, too.
To reduce the safety risk, Nissan recommends not to charge the LEAF using a DC fast charger until the recall repairs have been completed. By “repairs,” the automaker means a simple update to the vehicle software at a dealership. Nothing more than that.
A year ago, the LEAF was part of a massive recall affecting 1.4 million Nissan vehicles globally, including just over 13,000 units from the 2018-2023 model years in Canada. A braking system issue may result in the car not stopping after the driver releases the throttle. The fix, once again, is to reprogram the vehicle control module.
Owners can visit Nissan Canada’s recall website to find out if their vehicle is involved in any of these recalls or others.