The 2014 Nissan LEAF is a fully electric hatchback that emerged as a pioneer in the EV market. It's available in SV, S, and SL trims. Known for its affordability and practicality as an electric car, the LEAF offered a range of around 84 miles on a full charge. New, its price ranged from approximately $29,000 to $35,000. Its popularity stemmed from being an early, relatively inexpensive EV option making electric car ownership accessible.
The Good
The 2014 Nissan LEAF offers silent, smooth, and instant torque providing surprisingly peppy acceleration around town. Practically, it's exceptionally efficient and requires no gasoline, saving money on fuel. Emotionally, it appeals to eco-conscious buyers. It offers a comfortable ride and user-friendly interior design. While range is limited, it’s reliable within those boundaries.
The Bad
The 2014 Nissan LEAF's primary weakness is its limited range compared to newer EVs. Battery degradation is a concern, especially in warmer climates, significantly impacting range over time. Watch out for reduced battery capacity and ensure the car's battery has been well-maintained. The styling isn't universally admired, and the interior materials can feel basic.
2014 Nissan LEAF: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Single electric motor.
- Horsepower: 107 hp
- Fuel Economy: Rated at 126 city/101 highway/114 combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). This equates to approximately 29 kWh/100 miles.
- 0-60 Times: Around 10 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Standard features include keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth connectivity, a basic audio system, and cloth seats.
- SV: Adds features like a navigation system, a rearview camera, a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, and recycled cloth seat trim.
- SL: Includes leather seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, automatic headlights, and a solar panel spoiler to help power accessories.
- S: Standard features include keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth connectivity, a basic audio system, and cloth seats.
- Battery: 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
- Charging:
- Level 1 (120V): Around 20 hours for a full charge.
- Level 2 (240V): Around 4-5 hours for a full charge.
- DC Fast Charging (CHAdeMO): Approximately 30 minutes to charge to 80% capacity.
2014 Nissan LEAF Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2014 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | LEAF |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | AGUASCALIENTES CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
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History
All History
Events
Events
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Past Sale
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2014 Nissan LEAF Have?
The most frequently reported problem with the 2014 Nissan LEAF is battery degradation, particularly in hotter climates. Owners report significant loss of range over time, especially after several years of use. This is a known weakness of early LEAF models. Some owners have also reported issues with the charging system, including problems with the onboard charger failing or being slow. Nissan has issued recalls for various LEAF models, including potential issues with the airbag system and braking system. Check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recall repairs. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the battery's lifespan. While some batteries hold up well, others degrade significantly, requiring eventual replacement, which can be costly. Another potential issue is the 12V battery, which can fail prematurely, leading to starting problems. Routine maintenance and proper charging habits can help mitigate some of these issues, but battery degradation remains the biggest long-term reliability concern for the 2014 LEAF.
How long will the 2014 Nissan LEAF last?
With good maintenance, a 2014 Nissan LEAF can potentially last 10-12 years or reach 150,000 miles, but the lifespan is heavily dependent on battery condition. Many original batteries will have degraded significantly by this point. Owners who regularly charge to 100% and frequently use DC fast charging tend to experience faster battery degradation. Conversely, owners who limit charging to 80% and primarily use Level 2 charging can extend battery life. Long-term durability is also affected by climate; hotter climates accelerate battery degradation. Rust isn't a common issue, but suspension components and other wear items may require replacement over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2014 Nissan LEAF includes several built-in tech and safety features. The base 'S' trim offers standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, a basic audio system, and keyless entry. Stepping up to the 'SV' trim adds a navigation system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and Nissan's Carwings telematics system (for remote battery monitoring and charging). The top-tier 'SL' trim includes leather seats and automatic headlights. Entertainment features are centered around the infotainment system, which provides access to music streaming and vehicle information. Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles, with the rearview camera being the most notable. Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Optional features were mainly limited to trim levels, with no significant standalone tech or safety options available. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) give the 2014 LEAF an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2014 LEAF a "Good" rating in several crash tests, making it a reasonably safe vehicle for its class.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Glacier White
Super Black
Gun Metallic
Cayenne Red
Deep Blue Pearl
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Black Cloth
Gray Cloth
2014 Nissan LEAF Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2014 Nissan LEAF ranged from approximately $29,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim level. Today, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and battery health. The LEAF has experienced significant depreciation due to battery degradation concerns and the availability of newer EVs with longer ranges. Resale value is heavily influenced by the remaining battery capacity. A LEAF with a healthy battery will command a higher price than one with significant degradation. Location also matters, as demand for EVs can vary regionally.
2014 Nissan LEAF Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2014 Nissan LEAF are generally comparable to other compact cars. Fuel costs are significantly lower than gasoline cars, as it's electric. Maintenance is also typically lower due to fewer moving parts. However, potential battery replacement is a major expense. Repair costs can be moderate, but specialized EV repairs may be more expensive. Long-term ownership costs are economical if the battery remains healthy; otherwise, a replacement can make it costly. Overall, it's usually more economical than a comparable gasoline vehicle.
2014 Nissan LEAF Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Electric
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2014 Nissan LEAF Safety Rating
NHTSA
2014 Nissan LEAF Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2014-03-25
Recall no.
14v138000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2014 Altima, Leaf, Pathfinder, and Sentra, Model Year 2013 Nv200 (Aka Taxi) and Infiniti Jx35 and Model Year 2014 Infiniti Q50 and Qx60 Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Occupant Classification System (ocs) Software MAY Incorrectly Classify THE Passenger Seat AS Empty, When IT IS Occupied BY AN Adult.
Consequence
IF THE OCS Does NOT Detect AN Adult Occupant IN THE Passenger Seat, THE Passenger Airbag Would BE Deactivated. Failure OF THE Passenger Airbag TO Deploy During A Crash (Where Deployment IS Warranted) Could Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Passenger.
Remedy
Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE OCS Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 14, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:software
Recall date
2014-03-25
Recall no.
14v138000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2014 Altima, Leaf, Pathfinder, and Sentra, Model Year 2013 Nv200 (Aka Taxi) and Infiniti Jx35 and Model Year 2014 Infiniti Q50 and Qx60 Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Occupant Classification System (ocs) Software MAY Incorrectly Classify THE Passenger Seat AS Empty, When IT IS Occupied BY AN Adult.
Consequence
IF THE OCS Does NOT Detect AN Adult Occupant IN THE Passenger Seat, THE Passenger Airbag Would BE Deactivated. Failure OF THE Passenger Airbag TO Deploy During A Crash (Where Deployment IS Warranted) Could Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Passenger.
Remedy
Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE OCS Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 14, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Recall date
2014-05-16
Recall no.
14v263000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2014 Nissan Leaf Vehicles Manufactured April 15, 2014, Through April 24, 2014. DUE TO A Problem With THE Motor Control Circuit Board, THE Inverter MAY Fail, Causing THE Vehicle Shut Down.
Consequence
AN Unexpected Vehicle Shut Down Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Inverter, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN July 2014. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure
Recall date
2014-04-16
Recall no.
14v192000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2014 Leaf Vehicles Manufactured February 28, 2014, Through March 12, 2014. THE Front Structural Member Assembly MAY BE Missing Welds, Which Could Reduce THE Structural Integrity OF THE Vehicle IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Meet THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 208, "occupant Crash Protection," and 305, "electric-Powered Vehicles: Electrolyte Spillage and Electrical Shock Protection."
Consequence
Missing Welds MAY Effect THE Vehicle's Integrity IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Vehicle's Occupants.
Remedy
Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect TO SEE IF ANY OF THE Welds ARE Missing. ANY Vehicle Missing Welds Will BE Replaced, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 2, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Nissan AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes
Recall date
2016-02-29
Recall no.
16v119000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013-2015 Leaf Vehicles Manufactured November 19, 2012, TO July 31, 2015. During Very Cold Temperatures, THE Relay Inside THE Electronic Brake Booster MAY Freeze, Requiring THE Driver TO Exert More Effort TO Slow THE Vehicle Down.
Consequence
IF THE Brake Relay Fails, Longer Distances or Additional Brake Effort Would BE Required TO Stop THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Intelligent Brake Control Unit Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 28, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification
Recall date
2016-04-26
Recall no.
16v244000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2013-2016 Nissan Altima, Nv200, Leaf, Sentra, and Pathfinder, 2014-2016 Nissan Nv200 Taxi, Infiniti Qx60, Qx60 Hybrid, and Q50 Hybrid, 2014-2017 Nissan Rogue and Infiniti Q50, 2015-2016 Nissan Murano, Murano Hybrid, and Chevrolet City Express, 2014-2015 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, and 2013 Infiniti Jx35 Vehicles. IN These Vehicles, THE Front Seat Passenger Occupant Classification System (Ocs) MAY Incorrectly Classify AN Adult Passenger AS A Child or Classify THE Seat AS Empty Despite IT Being Occupied. AS A Result, THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG MAY BE Turned OFF and NOT Deploy IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence
IF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Does NOT Deploy AS Intended IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Passenger IS AT AN Increased Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Nissan Will Notify Their Owners. Chevrolet City Express Owners Will BE Notified BY General Motors. Dealers Will Reprogram THE AIR BAG Control Unit (Acu) and OCS Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) IN Altima, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, and Sentra Vehicles, and Replace THE OCS ECU IN Leaf, Nv200, Nv200 Taxi, Pathfinder, Infiniti Q50, Jx35, and Qx60 and Chevrolet City Express Vehicles, Free OF Charge. Interim Notices Were Sent TO Owners ON MAY 31, 2016. Owners Will Receive A Second Notice When Remedy Parts Become Available. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-867-7669, Infiniti Customer Service AT 1-888-833-3216 or Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:defroster/Defogger/Hvac System
Recall date
2023-04-26
Recall no.
23v296000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 Leaf Vehicles. THE Owner's Manual Instructions FOR Defroster Operation ARE Incorrect and MAY Result IN Reduced Defroster Performance Under Specific Conditions. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 103, "windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Consequence
Reduced Defroster Performance CAN Limit Visibility OUT OF THE Windshield, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Nissan Will Mail AN Addendum With Updated Instructions ON HOW TO Operate THE Defroster, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed MAY 26, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Nissan's Customer Service AT 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's Number FOR This Recall IS R23a1.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Equipment:other:owners/Service/Other Manual
Recall date
2023-04-26
Recall no.
23v296000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 Leaf Vehicles. THE Owner's Manual Instructions FOR Defroster Operation ARE Incorrect and MAY Result IN Reduced Defroster Performance Under Specific Conditions. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 103, "windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Consequence
Reduced Defroster Performance CAN Limit Visibility OUT OF THE Windshield, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Nissan Will Mail AN Addendum With Updated Instructions ON HOW TO Operate THE Defroster, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed MAY 26, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Nissan's Customer Service AT 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's Number FOR This Recall IS R23a1.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2014 Nissan LEAF Insurance
Insurance for a 2014 Nissan LEAF is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2014 Nissan LEAF Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2014 Nissan LEAF competed with other early EVs like the Ford Focus Electric, Chevrolet Volt (though a plug-in hybrid), and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. Compared to the Focus Electric, the LEAF generally offered slightly better range and a more spacious interior. The Volt provided a longer overall range thanks to its gasoline range extender but at a higher price. The i-MiEV was smaller and more affordable but had a significantly shorter range and less refined driving experience. In terms of reliability, the LEAF's battery degradation is a major concern, something the Volt partially mitigates. Feature-wise, the LEAF was competitive for its time. Given the age and battery concerns, recommending similar alternatives today would lean towards newer used EVs with longer ranges and better battery technology, such as a used Chevrolet Bolt or BMW i3. These alternatives offer improved range and, in some cases, more advanced features while remaining relatively affordable in the used market. If budget is a primary concern and short trips are the norm, a well-maintained 2014 LEAF can still be a viable option, but its limitations need to be carefully considered against newer, more capable EVs.
Ranks #1064 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1064 | 2014 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Nissan LEAF a Good Hatchback?
The 2014 Nissan LEAF is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking an inexpensive, short-range EV for commuting or city driving. It's worth buying *used* if the battery has been well-maintained and still offers acceptable range for your needs. A thorough battery health check is essential before purchasing. The SV and SL trims offer more features than the base S trim, making them more desirable. However, even with the better trims, manage expectations concerning range and technology compared to newer electric vehicles. If longer range is a must, consider alternatives, but if you understand its limitations and find one with a healthy battery at a good price, the 2014 LEAF can still be a practical choice.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.