Nissan Leaf warranty does not cover “gradual capacity loss”
Last updated May 19, 2011 — 30 views
Nissan is backing the Leaf’s Lithium-ion battery with an 8-year, 100,000 mile warranty (whichever comes first). Of note, however, the warranty does not cover what the company calls “gradual capacity loss,” which is a feature of all rechargeable batteries.
“The Lithium-ion battery (EV battery), like all lithium-ion batteries, will experience gradual capacity loss with time and use,” states the 2011 warranty.
“Loss of battery capacity due to or resulting from gradual capacity loss is NOT covered under this warranty,” the warranty text continues. “See your OWNER’S MANUAL for important tips on how to maximize the life and capacity of the Lithium-ion battery.”
Estimates for gradual capacity loss for the Leaf’s battery run around 4 percent per year, so it might be reasonable to expect the 100 mile range of the vehicle to degrade to around 70 miles in eight years. However, other conditions may further reduce the capacity of the battery, such as frequent fast charging.
Other conditions that may degrade the battery include prolonged exposure to very high and very low temperature environments. Have a look at the details below.
Here are images of four pages from the Leaf’s 2011 warranty (click each to enlarge):
