NHTSA Complaint #11545486 — 2019 NISSAN LEAF

On 9/17, 2019 Nissan Leaf S 40 kWh lost braking power just after start up. I started the vehicle, placed the vehicle into drive and went to creep through open parking spot. The brake pedal was either dead or lost enough power to feel dead. The vehicle was returned to park in order to stop slow roll. No injuries or damages. Experience seems similar to NHTSA ID 11488058. I don’t recall whether any warning lights came on as I rushed to power down the car. No indicator lights illuminated after restart and vehicle drove home without issue. A few hours prior to brake issue, a humming/ringing sound was heard throughout the cabin just after shutdown. My passengers also observed the sound, which stopped after powering on the vehicle and turning the fan dial. This had not happened before and only occurred once. On 09/18, the vehicle indicated “Warning: Service EV System No Power”. Numerous warning lights were illuminated, a photo taken, and a tow truck scheduled. Two hours later, I went to check whether the vehicle could be placed into neutral. The vehicle started and went into gear without issue and no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealership for inspection as precaution. My 12V battery was the original battery, so I suspected it needed replacement and asked the dealership to test it. I have read online about other issues from Nissan Leaf owners when the 12V battery is deteriorated. Dealership confirmed 12V battery failed testing. They were not able to duplicate the brake issue described above. The only time that the vehicle provided a warning about the 12V battery was when it generated the warning described above once. Otherwise, no indication that battery needed replacement. Nissan needs to provide a system update to give the driver more specific 12V battery health information. Also address the 12V battery more clearly in maintenance schedule. Vehicle operating as expected with a new 12V battery installed.