The Nissan Leaf was a trailblazer in the world of electric vehicles, being the first mass-produced EV to hit the market. It may have had limited power and range, as well as a unique design that resembled a bug-eyed space capsule, but it appealed to early adopters who were looking for something different from the traditional Toyota Prius.
However, as the EV market evolved, competitors like Tesla and Chevrolet began offering more powerful and longer-range electric vehicles, leaving the Leaf behind. Despite this, Nissan has continued to update the Leaf and has maintained its focus on affordability, making it America’s cheapest EV with a starting price below $30,000.
If you’re considering buying a used Nissan Leaf, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The first-generation Leaf, produced from 2011 to 2017, had a range of 73 to 107 miles depending on the battery pack size. The second-generation Leaf, introduced in 2018, offers a base model with a 149-mile range and a Leaf Plus model with a 215-horsepower engine and 212-mile range.
When it comes to pricing, first-gen Leafs can be found for under $5,000, while later models with the 30 kWh battery pack may cost between $5,000 and $10,000. Second-gen Leafs typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, with newer Leaf Plus models possibly exceeding $20,000.
One important factor to consider when buying a used Leaf is battery degradation. All lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, and older Leafs may have experienced significant loss in range. It’s essential to check the battery health and see if it falls within warranty coverage.
Speaking of warranties, Nissan typically offers a three-year or 36,000-mile comprehensive warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty on the battery pack. Keep in mind that the battery warranty only covers repairs to bring the battery back to a certain capacity level, not a full replacement.
In conclusion, a used Nissan Leaf can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for those looking to go electric. By understanding the different generations, pricing, battery health, charging capabilities, and warranty coverage, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a used Leaf.