2016 Nissan Leaf Safety Report
2016 Nissan Leaf: Strong crash ratings, but significant complaints regarding brake failure and sudden power loss, alongside multiple airbag recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Nissan Leaf
Reliability Score
The 2016 Nissan Leaf receives a reliability score of 60 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Nissan Leaf
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Nissan Leaf:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake System Failure Numerous complaints (14 total) describe instances where the service brakes fail to engage, require excessive pedal pressure, or completely lose function, often at low speeds or upon vehicle startup. This is a critical safety concern. |
High | Common | varied miles |
| Sudden Loss Of Drive Power Several complaints detail the vehicle unexpectedly shifting into neutral or losing all drive power, often at highway speeds, without warning. This is attributed to issues within the electrical system and fuel/propulsion system (EV battery/drivetrain). |
High | Occasional | 30000-60000 miles |
| Airbag Malfunction/Non-Deployment Multiple recalls (3 specific to airbags) indicate manufacturing errors in inflators, wiring harness disconnections, and occupant classification system issues that could prevent proper passenger frontal airbag deployment in a crash, increasing injury risk. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Battery Degradation/Reduced Range Complaints mention significant and rapid degradation of the main EV battery, leading to drastically reduced driving range (e.g., 64 miles at 100% charge with only 10k miles) and sometimes contributing to power loss issues. |
Medium | Occasional | 10000-40000 miles |
| Steering Binding/Sticking At least one complaint describes a 'plasticky sticking feeling and sound' when turning left, causing the steering to momentarily bind and leading to overcorrection. |
Medium | Rare | varied miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Nissan Leaf:
The most frequently reported issue, accounting for 14 complaints, involves various forms of brake failure, including loss of assist, requiring excessive pedal force, or complete non-engagement.
Four complaints relate to the electrical system, often intertwined with propulsion issues, leading to sudden power loss or vehicle shutdown.
Three complaints specifically mention the fuel/propulsion system, primarily concerning sudden power loss, shifting into neutral at speed, and significant battery degradation.
Two complaints directly mention airbags, though the recall history indicates a broader pattern of potential airbag deployment issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Nissan Leaf
Is the 2016 Nissan Leaf safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Nissan Leaf received strong 4-star ratings across all crash tests (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), indicating good occupant protection in a collision. However, it has 35 complaints, with a significant number (14) related to service brake failures and several (3-4) concerning sudden loss of propulsion power, which are serious safety concerns. There are also four safety recalls, three of which address potential airbag malfunctions.
What are common problems with the 2016 Nissan Leaf?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Nissan Leaf are related to the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (14 complaints), with owners experiencing brake failure or requiring excessive pedal pressure. Other common problems include 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (4 complaints) and 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM' (3 complaints) issues, often manifesting as sudden loss of power at highway speeds or significant battery degradation.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Nissan Leaf?
Yes, the 2016 Nissan Leaf has four safety recalls. Three of these are related to 'AIR BAGS', addressing issues with inflator manufacturing, wiring harness connections, and occupant classification sensors that could prevent proper airbag deployment. The fourth recall concerns incorrect defroster operation instructions in the owner's manual.
How does the 2016 Nissan Leaf perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Nissan Leaf performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 4-star overall safety rating. It also received 4 stars in the Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover categories, indicating a good level of protection for occupants in various collision scenarios.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Nissan Leaf?
When considering a used 2016 Nissan Leaf, pay close attention to the brake system's responsiveness and ensure all recall repairs, especially those for airbags, have been completed. Investigate the vehicle's battery health and range, as degradation is a common complaint, and be aware of potential sudden power loss issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Nissan Leaf has good crash test ratings, potential buyers should be cautious due to numerous complaints about brake failure and sudden power loss, and ensure all four safety recalls, particularly those for airbags, have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Nissan Leaf
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Nissan Leaf. The data includes 35 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Nissan Leaf an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 4 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.