Last updated: 2026-07-26
Nissan Leaf Reliability by Year
The Nissan Leaf averages 66/100 across 5 model years, rated good.
Nissan Leaf Reliability Overview
The Nissan Leaf, covering model years 2018 to 2025, shows a varied reliability performance with scores ranging from 58/100 to 79/100, indicating generally good reliability with some mixed results in earlier years. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the electrical system, particularly involving battery performance and charging capabilities, with notable improvements in the 2025 model year, which has a lower complaint rate of 13.7 per 10,000 sold. With an estimated annual repair cost of $748, higher than the average for alternative fuel vehicles, the Leaf is suited for buyers who prioritize electric vehicle benefits but should be aware of potential repair costs and specific model year concerns.
Current generation: 3rd gen (2026–present).
Best & Worst Nissan Leaf Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Nissan Leaf Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Nissan Leaf year is 2025 with a reliability score of 79/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2021 (70/100) and 2018 (67/100).
Nissan Leaf Years to Avoid
The worst Nissan Leaf year is 2020 with a score of 58/100, primarily due to electrical system (113) issues. Also avoid 2019 (58/100).
Nissan Leaf Reliability Score Trend
Nissan Leaf reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 69/100 compared to 63/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 79/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2025 Nissan Leaf
0 recalls · 7 complaints
The 2025 Nissan Leaf has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 7 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Nissan Leaf. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Unknown Or Other (1), Vehicle Speed Control (1).
2021 Nissan Leaf
4 recalls · 51 complaints
The 2021 Nissan Leaf has good reliability. There are 4 recalls and 51 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Nissan Leaf. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (29), Unknown Or Other (6), Visibility Wiper (4).
2020 Nissan Leaf
6 recalls · 159 complaints
The 2020 Nissan Leaf has mixed reliability. There are 6 recalls and 159 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Nissan Leaf. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (113), Unknown Or Other (14), Power Train (12).
2019 Nissan Leaf
5 recalls · 251 complaints
The 2019 Nissan Leaf has mixed reliability. There are 5 recalls and 251 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Nissan Leaf. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (162), Unknown Or Other (32), Fuel Propulsion System (17).
2018 Nissan Leaf
4 recalls · 64 complaints
The 2018 Nissan Leaf has good reliability. There are 4 recalls and 64 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Nissan Leaf. Severity signals include 9 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (15), Service Brakes (12), Vehicle Speed Control (9).
Found Your Nissan Leaf? Check Its History
Every Nissan Leaf has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Nissan Leaf Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
4/5
Annual Repair Cost
$748
Repair Frequency
0.2/yr
Major Repair Risk
10%
$277 above the alternative fuel vehicles average of $471/yr.
Ranked #3 of 4 among alternative fuel vehicles.
Nissan Leaf Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Nissan Models
Compare all Nissan models by reliability
Compare Nissan Leaf With Similar Sedans
The Nissan Leaf competes with other compact sedans such as Subaru Legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Nissan Leaf reliable?
- The Nissan Leaf has good reliability with an average score of 66/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Nissan Leaf?
- The best year for the Nissan Leaf is 2025 with a reliability score of 79/100, rated good. It has 0 recalls and 7 owner complaints on record. See full 2025 Nissan Leafanalysis →
- What are the Nissan Leaf years to avoid?
- The Nissan Leaf years to avoid include 2020 (58/100), 2019 (58/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Nissan Leaf?
- The Nissan Leaf has an estimated annual repair cost of $748, which is $277 above the alternative fuel vehicles average of $471. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs based on independent repair data.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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