If you’re in the market for a used vehicle, the Nissan Leaf is an excellent option. It has a low price tag and requires little maintenance. However, there are some things to consider.
For starters, few original owners paid the total sticker price because of a federal income tax credit of up to a thousand dollars. This makes depreciation much less severe.
Reliability
The Nissan Leaf is one of the most popular and reliable electric vehicles. It has a long track record of high-reliability ratings and solid reviews from many sources. However, it is essential to note that different model years have better or worse reliability ratings. As a result, it’s crucial to choose the right year when purchasing a used Nissan Leaf.
For example, owners should avoid the 2011 and 2012 models as these do not have a heat pump, which affects battery life. Additionally, the batteries in these cars degrade faster than those of other model years.
The 2019 and newer models, on the other hand, are more reliable. They have a better-predicted reliability rating and come with a warranty that offers extra peace of mind for buyers. Additionally, these models are eligible for zero road tax and other cost-saving benefits. Therefore, a used Nissan Leaf is a smart option for drivers who want an affordable and reliable electric car.
Price
Getting a used Nissan Leaf can save you thousands of dollars over a new one, especially in the Pacific Northwest, where EV charging is plentiful. Also, because electric cars are expected to accumulate fewer miles than gasoline vehicles, they tend to cost less to insure.
However, a significant drawback to buying a used Leaf is its notoriously small power pack, known to lose range over time. This is particularly true of older models, which only offer a realistic EPA-estimated 80 miles of range – not enough to drive long distances without frequent recharges.
Buyers can overcome this by focusing on second-generation Leaf models with bigger 40 and 62kWh batteries, which provide a valid 208-239 miles of range. Plus, they’re equipped with advanced driver assistance features like ProPilot Assist to make your trip safer and more accessible.
Space
The Nissan Leaf offers a lot of space for its size. The rear seats fold flat to accommodate more oversized cargo like bicycles and luggage. The interior is designed for your convenience, with features like a spacious 23.6 cubic feet of trunk space and ample legroom for passengers.
In addition to a comfortable cabin, the Leaf also boasts cutting-edge tech that enhances your driving experience. This includes the innovative e-pedal system that harnesses regenerative braking to optimize electricity usage and extend your driving range. It also includes the advanced NissanConnect EV with Services app, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and automatic temperature control.
Plus, you can stay connected on the go with an 8.0-inch customizable display and intuitive technology like Nissan Door-to-Door Navigation. The first generation of the Leaf is known for its light-colored interior that looks great and tolerates dirt quite well compared to the black-grey interior found in later models starting in 2013. Check the model year to see if your used Nissan Leaf has a DC fast charging port that supports Level Three or above.
Convenience
The Nissan Leaf made electric cars accessible to the masses when it first launched in 2011, and it’s still an excellent option for second-hand buyers. A used model will be cheaper to buy and will likely depreciate less than a conventional car of the same age.
It’s also cheaper to run, with zero road tax and exemption from congestion charges and low-emissions zones. In addition, it’s reasonable to charge, with most Leafs requiring just a few pence for overnight home charging or a quick top-up at a public charger.
The Leaf is a pleasure to drive, with regenerative braking charging the battery as you slow down and a smooth, quiet ride over most UK roads. It handles a motorway just as well as it does around town, and its focus on comfort means that the Leaf can iron out potholes better than many of its rivals.
Safety
Nissan’s Leaf has pioneered electric cars, offering cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking driver aids. While the newer generation has improved on the range and performance of its predecessor, the older models have a good reputation for being safe and reliable.
While many people worry about range anxiety, it is not as big of a problem as it might seem. For one thing, it is easy to find a charging station if you have to, and they are often accessible to use. Additionally, the cars have a low center of gravity and fast acceleration, so they are entertaining to drive.
The other significant benefit of a used Leaf is its battery longevity. The car’s display features a stack of bars telling you how long the vehicle will go between charges. Typically, if you keep the car clean and maintain it well, you can expect the bars to disappear no more than two at a time. This is significantly less than you might see in a comparable ICE car with the same age and mileage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, purchasing a used Nissan Leaf over a new model offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive choice for environmentally-conscious consumers. The significant cost savings associated with buying a used Leaf can free up funds for other important expenses or investments.
Additionally, the reduced depreciation of a used vehicle allows owners to retain more of their initial investment over time. With improvements in battery technology and range, used Nissan Leafs still offer impressive performance and reliability.
Furthermore, buying a used Leaf contributes to reducing environmental impact by extending the life cycle of electric vehicles. Therefore, if you are considering going green and saving money, purchasing a used Nissan Leaf is a smart choice that aligns with your values and financial goals.
