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2011 Nissan Leaf Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 15, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2011 Nissan Leaf Report

Overall Score

8.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Battery health is the primary long-term ownership concern for this model.
  • A high TSB count indicates potential issues that may not have resulted in recalls or complaints.
  • The 2011 Leaf achieved a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating.
  • No safety recalls or owner complaints were logged in the provided data.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Nissan Leaf

The 2011 Nissan Leaf represents an early foray into mainstream electric vehicles. While it boasts a perfect 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, its 'Average' reliability verdict, driven by a significant TSB count and potential battery degradation, warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. No recalls or complaints were noted in the provided data, but the sheer volume of TSBs suggests potential for issues not rising to recall level. Buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection of the battery and charging infrastructure.

Critical Failure Risk

The primary concern for any EV, especially early models, is the degradation of the high-voltage battery over time and use. This can lead to reduced range and performance.

Early detection can help you avoid a $5,000-$10,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
107HP
Torque
207 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
99 MPGe combined
Published range
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

6.6/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking an affordable entry into electric vehicle ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers requiring long-distance travel without frequent charging stops.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Nissan Leaf Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Nissan Leaf.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
107 hp
Torque
207 lb-ft
Transmission
1-speed direct drive
Drivetrain
FWD
Body Style
Hatchback
MSRP Range
$32,780 - $33,720

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Most Common Issues

1. High-Voltage Battery Degradation

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Charging System Faults

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $150

15,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Nissan Leaf reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Nissan Leaf is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2011 Nissan Leaf for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.6/10. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 411 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Nissan Leaf is 8.4/10. Overall score is 8.4/10 (Strong). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 9.1/10. Practicality 6.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 15,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: High-Voltage Battery Pack (typical at 100,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $5,000 • Max: $10,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

MSRP range is $32,780 - $33,720.

What engine is in the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

Output is 107 hp • 207 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2011 Nissan Leaf use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Leaf, transmission is 1-speed direct drive. The paired drivetrain is FWD.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Leaf, fuel economy range is 99 MPGe combined.

How many people fit in a 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Leaf, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Leaf, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Nissan Leaf use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Nissan Leaf, drivetrain is FWD. Transmission is 1-speed direct drive.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Nissan Leaf?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2011 Chevrolet Volt.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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