Last updated: 2026-07-26

2019 Nissan Leaf Reliability Report
The 2019 Nissan Leaf scores 58/100 ("Mixed"). With 5 recalls and 251 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
5
Complaints
251
Complaint Rate
203per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$748
EV Range
150–226 mi
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (162)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (17)
- POWER TRAIN (12)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 2 of the Second generation (ZE1; 2017).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2023.
- 2nd generation Leaf (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2018 (redesign year) vs 2019+ pricing and recalls.
2018: Second generation (ZE1; 2017) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is year 2 of the Second generation (ZE1; 2017).
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Nissan Leaf?
A 58/100 score puts the 2019 Nissan Leaf in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2019 is year 2 of the Second generation (ZE1; 2017).
Complaint volume sits above average at 251 owner complaints alongside 5 recalls. Issues in electrical system and electrical system (162) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put electrical system and electrical system (162) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2020 Nissan Leaf, which scored the same. See also the 2018 Nissan Leaf for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (10%)
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average repair costs for its class
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
Compare 2019 Nissan Leaf With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (162)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (32)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
A moderate 5 recalls are on file for the 2019 Nissan Leaf. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
203
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 19
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
2
Fires
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Nissan Leaf Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Nissan Leaf. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2020 LEAF vehicles equipped with a Level 3 quick charging port. The lithium-ion battery may overheat during Level 3 charging.
Consequence
A quick charging battery that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the battery software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed June 3, 2026. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are R24B2, P4A38, and P5A22.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2023 LEAF vehicles. The vehicle may accelerate unintentionally if the driving mode is changed ("D" to "B"; e-Pedal "On"; or "ECO" mode) after disengaging the cruise control.
Consequence
Unintentional acceleration can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the vehicle control module (VCM), free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 30, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23A6.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2022 LEAF vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 9, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23D7.
Buying a used 2019 Nissan Leaf? Check its history first
Every 2019 Nissan Leaf has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Nissan Leaf NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Nissan LeafRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$748
vs $471 avg for alternative fuel vehicles
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
10%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Electric
150–226 mi range
Fuel cost: $700–$750/yr
Fuel only
30.182–32.283 kWh/100mi · 8–11 hrs @ 240V
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf (40 kW-hr battery pack) | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 150 mi | 30.2 | $700 |
| Leaf (62 kW-hr battery pack) | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 226 mi | 31.0 | $700 |
| Leaf SV/SL (62 kW-hr battery pack) | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 215 mi | 32.3 | $750 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Nissan Leaf.
Test battery for rapid charge drop and inaccurate range estimates
Inspect for unresolved recalls, especially related to battery and charging
Check for intermittent back-up camera functionality
Test e-pedal and brake effectiveness under normal driving conditions
Verify infotainment system stability, including navigation and audio
Ensure fast charging capability is functional and safe to use
2019 Nissan Leaf Common Problems by Component
251 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
162 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2019 Nissan Leaf's electrical system, particularly involving battery defects and recall-related charging restrictions. Complaints frequently mention problems with the battery dropping charge unexpectedly, inability to use DC fast charging, and the lack of available recall remedies, often leaving the vehicle limited to short-range use. Multiple owners describe scenarios where the vehicle's battery level drops rapidly, impacting the vehicle's drivability, with some reporting this occurring around 30,000 to 90,000 miles. Safety concerns are noted, including the risk of battery fires during fast charging and one reported crash. These issues can significantly affect the vehicle's usability and market value, which is important for potential buyers to consider.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
32 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf frequently report issues related to the vehicle's fast charging capability, particularly citing a recall that advises against using Level 3 DC fast charging due to a risk of battery fires. Complaints highlight the absence of a remedy for this issue, with some owners unable to use the fast charging feature for over a year, significantly affecting the vehicle's utility for long-distance travel. Additionally, several owners describe problems with the backup camera, including it displaying a blank screen or static lines, even after attempted repairs. While one complaint specifically mentions a fire risk associated with the fast charging issue, no actual fires or crashes are reported. These issues are noted across various mileage ranges and timelines, with some owners mentioning the problems persisting despite regular maintenance and recall compliance.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
17 complaintsOwners report significant issues with the 2019 Nissan Leaf's high-voltage battery, particularly related to a recall for fire risks during Level 3 DC fast-charging. Complaints frequently mention that the recall has been outstanding for over a year without a remedy, severely limiting the vehicle's charging capabilities and range. Multiple owners describe rapid battery drain and inaccurate range estimates, leading to unexpected vehicle stalling or entering "turtle mode," which restricts speed. These symptoms often occur under standard driving conditions and can pose safety risks, such as potential stranding or loss of acceleration on highways. Buyers should note that these issues typically arise regardless of mileage, with some reports occurring at as low as 13,801 miles.
POWER TRAIN (12 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
12 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf frequently report issues related to a battery recall that affects the vehicle's ability to use Level 3 fast chargers, with some stating they have been unable to use this feature for over a year. Symptoms include the inability to charge at public stations due to incompatibility and fire risks, as well as noticeable fluctuations in the state of charge, particularly during cold weather or on inclines, leading to sudden drops in battery percentage. Some owners also mention experiencing uncommanded acceleration and clunking noises during acceleration. These issues have significant safety implications, such as the risk of battery fires and loss of vehicle power, and have left many vehicles inoperable for extended periods. Buyers considering a used 2019 Nissan Leaf should be aware of these ongoing issues and the potential for unresolved recalls affecting vehicle usability.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (10 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
10 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf frequently report issues with the rearview camera, which often displays a black screen or an outdated image when reversing, affecting visibility. Some owners note that the camera works intermittently, complicating backing maneuvers due to the vehicle's blind spots. Additionally, there are reports of windshield wipers ceasing to function during rain or light snow, leading to obstructed views and potential safety risks. These wiper issues sometimes involve mechanical failures such as bent wiper arms. Complaints about these visibility problems do not consistently mention specific mileage or timeframes, but they do highlight potential safety implications, especially when driving in adverse weather conditions or in areas with pedestrian traffic.
SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf frequently report issues with the braking system, particularly involving the e-pedal and electronic brake components. Common symptoms include unexpected disconnection of the e-pedal system with a dashboard alert, brake pedal ineffectiveness, and occasional complete brake failure, as described by a crash incident. Some owners mention that the electronic parking brake does not engage automatically, contrary to the owner's manual. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with one owner noting problems as early as 62,000 miles. Safety implications include a reported crash and potential loss of control, which could be critical for prospective buyers to consider.
ENGINE (3 complaints)
ENGINE
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf frequently report issues related to battery performance and recall-related delays. Complaints often mention a recall concerning battery overheating or fire risks during Level 3 charging, with some owners experiencing prolonged resolution times, spanning up to two years, which impact their ability to legally drive their vehicles. Additionally, there are reports of sudden battery charge drops in cold weather, leading to temporary power loss and the need to pull over, though these incidents do not consistently trigger error messages in the vehicle's system. These issues have safety implications, including potential fire hazards and sudden power loss, which could affect vehicle control. This information is pertinent for prospective buyers considering a used 2019 Nissan Leaf.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf report persistent issues with the back-up camera, specifically intermittent loss of the camera picture while reversing. Symptoms typically include a blank display screen, which some owners note occurs intermittently and continues despite attempted repairs. One owner mentions the problem persisting since 2022, with another noting the issue at approximately 10,000 miles. Safety implications include potential difficulty in reversing safely due to lack of visual assistance. Buyers considering this vehicle should be aware of ongoing back-up camera malfunctions and potential delays in recall repairs due to parts availability.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Nissan Leaf report issues related to vehicle speed control, particularly involving rapid battery capacity changes and unintended acceleration. One complaint describes a sudden drop in battery capacity during highway driving, triggering a "turtle mode" that severely limits acceleration and speed, creating a hazardous situation on the road. Another complaint involves a crash where the vehicle unexpectedly surged forward while entering a garage, despite low battery charge, leading to a collision with property and resulting in an injury. These issues are noted at different mileage points, with one incident occurring at approximately 20,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of crashes and loss of control, which potential buyers should consider.
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
2 complaintsOwners report that the 2019 Nissan Leaf lacks an audible seat belt reminder, which is expected to last four to eight seconds, as per federal standards. Complaints frequently mention that the vehicle does not provide an audible warning when the front seat belt is not buckled, although a visual alert may be present. These reports do not specify mileage ranges, suggesting the issue is consistent regardless of vehicle age or usage. While no crashes or direct safety incidents are noted, the absence of an audible reminder could potentially affect seat belt usage. This information is useful for buyers considering the vehicle's compliance with expected safety features.
When Do 2019 Nissan Leaf Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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).
2020
2019
(Current Model)
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. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 79/100 | Good |
Nissan Leaf Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Nissan Leaf reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Nissan Leaf?
How many recalls does the 2019 Nissan Leaf have?
Is the 2019 Nissan Leaf expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Nissan Leaf without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Nissan Leaf.
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