The Nissan Leaf, a trailblazer in the electric vehicle (EV) market, has gained popularity for its eco-friendly design and efficient performance.
If you’re a proud owner or a prospective buyer of a 2018 Nissan Leaf, understanding the health of its battery is crucial for maximizing the vehicle’s lifespan and performance.
Unlike its predecessors, the 2018 model introduces a new method for assessing battery health, and this article will guide you through the process.
Dash Display Overview
Unlike earlier Leaf models, the 2018 Nissan Leaf may not feature the traditional capacity bars on the dash. Instead, it adopts a more modern approach, displaying a partly filled battery icon resembling a smartphone with a percentage inside.
This change has left some owners and potential buyers wondering how to assess the battery health accurately.
Utilizing Steering Wheel Controls
To determine the battery health on 2018 and newer models, Nissan has integrated a user-friendly method accessible through the steering wheel controls. The battery health information can be found on the “Battery Capacity” screen.
Using the left and right arrow keys on the steering wheel, navigate through the various screens until you reach the farthest left menu. From there, cycle down to find the screen labeled “Battery Capacity.”
Interpreting the Battery Capacity Screen
Once you’ve accessed the “Battery Capacity” screen, you’ll be greeted by a visual representation of the battery’s health. The screen typically displays a battery gauge, and a fully filled gauge indicates that the battery is in good health.
This simplified approach allows users to quickly assess the overall condition of the battery without the need for complex calculations or external devices.
Important: EV battery replacement can cost $1000s. To avoid high-voltage battery replacement, there are some things you can do. Read this article to find out the 10 best ways to maximize EV battery life and save tons of money!
Range Estimate vs. Battery Health
It’s important to note that attempting to calculate battery health based on the range estimate is not an accurate method. The range displayed is influenced by recent driving conditions and doesn’t provide a true reflection of the actual capacity of the battery.
Therefore, relying solely on the range estimate can lead to misconceptions about the battery’s health.
LeafSpy Application
For those seeking a more in-depth analysis of the battery health on the 2018 Nissan Leaf, the LeafSpy application comes into play. LeafSpy allows users to access additional information about the battery, providing a comprehensive overview of its condition.
Despite discussions about potential changes by Nissan, LeafSpy remains a valuable tool for EV enthusiasts who want to delve deeper into the technical aspects of their vehicle.
To use LeafSpy, simply connect the app to the Leaf’s onboard diagnostics through an OBD2 scanner. LeafSpy offers detailed insights into the battery’s state of health (SOH) and other essential parameters.
While the steering wheel controls provide a quick and easy assessment, LeafSpy caters to those who crave more technical details about their EV.
Also read: 21 Things You Didn’t Know About Charging Nissan Leaf
Conclusion
Owning an electric vehicle like the 2018 Nissan Leaf comes with the responsibility of ensuring the longevity and efficiency of its battery.
The transition from traditional capacity bars to a more modern display might seem daunting at first, but with the steering wheel controls and tools like LeafSpy, users can easily check and understand their battery’s health.
Whether you opt for a quick assessment through the dash display or a more in-depth analysis using LeafSpy, staying informed about your Nissan Leaf’s battery health is key to a rewarding and sustainable EV ownership experience.
As technology evolves, so do the methods for assessing and maintaining the heart of your electric vehicle—the battery