2012 Nissan Leaf
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 1 |
| 2011 | 95 |
| 2012 | 57 |
| 2013 | 81 |
| 2014 | 34 |
| 2015 | 107 |
| 2016 | 35 |
| 2017 | 17 |
| 2018 | 62 |
| 2019 | 250 |
| 2020 | 158 |
| 2021 | 51 |
| 2022 | 88 |
| 2023 | 19 |
| 2024 | 4 |
| 2025 | 7 |
| 2026 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
39% of complaints: service brakes — 22 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
DROVE CAR INTO DRIVEWAY WITH SLIGHT INCLINE, PRESSED BUTTON TO ENGAGE CAR INTO PARK, GOT OUT OF VEHICLE, PLUGGED IN CAR TO CHARGE IT. WALKED UP 2 STEPS TO HOUSE, CAR ROLLED BACK NEARLY STRIKING 9 YEAR OLD. RUSHED TO THE CAR TO TRY TO STOP IT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20130830
DRIVING MY 2012 LEAF ON A SECONDARY ROAD ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AT 45 MPH, I APPLIED MY BRAKES TO TURN RIGHT ON TO ANOTHER STREET. AFTER MODERATELY PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL THE BRAKES LOCKED, BRINGING THE VEHICLE TO A COMPLETE STOP IN THE ROADWAY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20130710
THIS IS AN ALL ELECTRIC VEHICLE. WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES AT SLOW SPEEDS THE VEHICLE PULSATES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180718
25% of complaints: electrical system — 14 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
High voltage battery keeps shorting out stalling while driving on interstate almost got hit by 18 wheeler a few times it's a very unsafe car to drive and I keep smelling something like an odor from the battery I've been trying to get help to do the...
NHTSA ODI report, 20260221
NISSAN LEAF. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO A NUMBER OF CONCERNS: ELECTRONIC KEY PROBLEMS, FAILED NIGHT LIGHTS IN THE DRIVER DOOR CONTROLS AND MILEAGE ISSUES. *LD *JS
NHTSA ODI report, 20180725
THIS IS AN ALL ELECTRIC VEHICLE. WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES AT SLOW SPEEDS THE VEHICLE PULSATES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180718
19% of complaints: air bags — 11 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Dealer is Mike Erdman Nissan Merritt Island Fl 32953 Airbag warning light flashing red on console. Paid $260 for diagnostic check on July 21, 2024.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240723
7% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 4 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 NISSAN LEAF. THE CONTACT WAS PARKING THE VEHICLE WITH HIS FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. THE VEHICLE WENT OVER A CURB AND CRASHED INTO A BUSH.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120802
5% of complaints: visibility/wiper — 3 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
Front Occupant Classification System Mat
Front Occupant Classification System Mat
Pedestrian alert sounds
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2012 Nissan Leaf — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (22 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (11 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2012 Nissan Leaf reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2012 Nissan Leaf is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Nissan Leaf?
The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2012 Nissan Leaf have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.