Is the Nissan Leaf Reliable?
2011–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other hybrids — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Nissan Leaf? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Nissan Leaf Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 3 | — | — | 78 | Good |
| 2025 | 0 | 4 | — | — | 78 | Good |
| 2024 | 0 | 3 | — | — | 78 | Good |
| 2023 | 1 | 19 | — | — | 74 | Good |
| 2022 | 3 | 88 | 1 | — | 53 | Fair |
| 2021 | 3 | 50 | 3 | — | 53 | Fair |
| 2020 | 5 | 100 | — | — | 53 | Fair |
| 2019 | 3 | 161 | 9 | — | 53 | Fair |
| 2018 | 2 | 52 | 3 | — | 53 | Fair |
| 2017 | 2 | 21 | 1 | — | 70 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Leaf Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Leaf scores 3 points above the average hybrid — a strong result.
Known Nissan Leaf Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 501 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Leaf reliable?+
The Nissan Leaf scores 68/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 20 recall campaigns and 501 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Leaf is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2026 Leaf achieved the highest reliability score of 78/100 with 1 recall and 3 complaints.
How many miles does a Leaf last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Nissan Leaf owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Leaf will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Nissan Leaf Research
Check a Specific Nissan Leaf VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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