Nissan Leaf is the Latest EV Fire Risk Recall

Nissan is recalling a small number of Leaf electric vehicles due to battery problems that the automaker says could lead to car fires.

The company is warning owners not to charge the vehicles and to park them outside until the defect is addressed. Only Nissan does not expect to start fixing the problem - inspecting and replacing batteries, if needed - until July, at the earliest.

“Nissan dealers will provide a rental car for the owners of subject vehicles until the remedy is available,” the company said in a recall notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall currently covers 51 Nissan Leaf EVs from the 2026 model year. The cars’ batteries may be damaged in a way that causes them to short-circuit, according to the automaker. The company said it was not aware of any warranty claims, accidents, or injuries stemming from the issue.

This is just the latest fire scare for Nissan Leaf drivers. The company recalled some 20,000 Leaf EVs last year, warning that they could catch fire while level 3 charging. 

“While the vehicle is Level 3 quick charging, the increased electrical resistance could result in rapid heating of the battery,” Nissan said in a recall report. “If quick charging continues, a battery fire may occur, increasing the risk of injury,” the company told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

That marked the second time in two years Nissan recalled Leaf EVs over the same issue with their lithium-ion batteries. The first recall covered about 24,000 EVs from model years 2019 and 2020, while the second recall involved hatchbacks from 2021 and 2022. The vehicles’ lithium-ion batteries could have excessive lithium deposits within their cells, which increase electrical resistance and can cause fluctuations in state of charge, according to Nissan.

How the California Lemon Law Works

The California lemon law gives Nissan and other drivers in the Golden State significant rights and protections regarding defective or malfunctioning vehicles.

The lemon law generally requires car manufacturers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces companies to buy back (or, in some cases, replace) covered cars that they are unable or flat-out refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts required before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is crucial to speak with an experienced California lemon law attorney who can help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with a Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a Los Angeles lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back. Our attorneys combine decades of experience in these cases and have a strong track record of successful results.

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Los Angeles lemon law attorney.