Nissan recalled 19,077 Leaf electric vehicles (EVs) from model years 2021-2022 because their batteries may catch fire when connected to a Level 3 quick charger.
Nissan tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the problem exists only in Leaf hatchbacks built on specific dates.
“Nissan has determined the lithium-ion battery in affected vehicles may experience excessive lithium deposits within battery cells, increasing the electrical resistance and potentially causing a fluctuation in the state of charge,” the company says. The problem appears to happen only when connected to Level 3 chargers — the fastest charger type, often found at highway rest stops.
The company is asking owners to avoid using Level 3 chargers for the time being. Nissan is still preparing the remedy. The company expects its answer to be a software update.
When it comes, it will be free. Manufacturers never charge for recall repairs.
Manufacturers recall many cars, often more than once, during their lifespan. Automakers try to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all. Discover if your vehicle has any outstanding recalls with the easy-to-use vehicle identification number (VIN) tool at our recall center.
