Nissan Leaf II (ZE1) (2017 – 2025)
Reliability score : 8.2/10
The second-generation Nissan Leaf (ZE1), launched in late 2017, had the challenging task of succeeding the world's pioneering electric vehicle. It corrects the main flaws of the first generation (ZE0) with a much more consensual design, a larger trunk (435 liters), and higher capacity batteries (40 kWh then 62 kWh). It introduces significant technologies such as the e-Pedal (one-pedal driving) and the ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving system. However, Nissan made the controversial choice to retain two aging technologies: the CHAdeMO fast-charging standard (now superseded by CCS in Europe and North America) and passive battery cooling (by air, without a liquid circuit). This latter point leads to the Rapidgate phenomenon (throttling of charging speed during successive fast charges to protect
✅ Strengths
- Exceptional overall reliability (very robust EM57 electric motor and power electronics)
- Suspension comfort and quiet operation
- Very well calibrated and intuitive e-Pedal system
- Generous trunk volume for the category (435 L)
- Attractive prices on the used car market
- Negligible maintenance cost
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Passive battery cooling (Rapidgate phenomenon on highway)
- Obsolete CHAdeMO fast-charging standard (increasingly rare charging stations)
- Dated and slow NissanConnect infotainment system
- Imperfect driving position (steering wheel not adjustable for reach)
- Bulky central tunnel in the rear seats (legacy of shared platform)
🎯 Verdict
The Nissan Leaf II (ZE1) is an excellent transitional electric car, provided you clearly define your needs. If you are looking for a primary vehicle to travel across the country, AVOID IT: the disappearing CHAdeMO standard and passive battery cooling will turn your long journeys into a nightmare. However, if you are looking for a spacious, ultra-reliable, comfortable secondary vehicle for daily commutes and you charge at home, it's a golden opportunity on the used car market. NEGOTIATE firmly on the price, arguing the obsolescence of the CHAdeMO port.
Common issues
Dégradation prématurée de la batterie de traction (Rapidgate)
High
🔧 Dès 40 000 km, s'accentue avec l'âge et l'usage intensif (DC rapide)
💶 10 000 – 20 000 €+ (remplacement complet, souvent non rentable)
Vérifier le SoH (State of Health) de la batterie avant achat, éviter les charges rapides fréquentes.
Défaillance de la batterie 12V auxiliaire
Low
🔧 30 000 – 80 000 km ou 3-5 ans
💶 150 – 300 €
La faire tester régulièrement, la remplacer préventivement après 4 ans.
Problèmes de charge (port de charge, module OBC)
Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 500 – 2 000 €
S'assurer que tous les modes de charge fonctionnent correctement lors de l'essai.
Dysfonctionnements du système e-Pedal / Freinage régénératif
Medium
🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km
💶 300 – 800 €
Tester le fonctionnement de l'e-Pedal et du freinage régénératif sur route.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Complete brakes |
£180 – 400 |
| Estimated annual budget |
£220 – 500 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.