Brake system -20, Brake precautions -20 – NISSAN 2015 LEAF - Owner's Manual User Manual

Page 305

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You may hear a noise when the steering wheel is
operated quickly. However, this is not a malfunc-
tion.

If the power steering warning light

illumi-

nates while the READY to drive indicator light is
ON, it may indicate the power steering system is
not functioning properly and may need servicing.
Have the power steering system checked by a
NISSAN certified LEAF dealer. (See “Power
steering warning light” in the “Instruments and
controls” section.)

The power assist for steering stops operating
when both the power steering warning light and
READY to drive indicator light are illuminated.
You will still have control of the vehicle. However,
greater steering effort is needed, especially in
sharp turns and at low speeds.

BRAKE PRECAUTIONS

This vehicle is equipped with two braking sys-
tems:

1. Hydraulic brake system

2. Regenerative brake system

Hydraulic brake system

The hydraulic brake system is similar to the
brakes used on conventional vehicles.

The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still
have braking at two wheels.

Regenerative brake system

The primary purpose of regenerative brake sys-
tem is to provide some power to help recharge
the Li-ion battery and extend driving range. A
secondary benefit is “engine braking” that oper-
ates based on battery conditions.

In the D (Drive) range, when the accelerator is
released, the regenerative brake system provides
some deceleration and generates power for the
Li-ion battery. Power is also generated when the
brake pedal is applied.

When you put the shift lever in the ECO position
and take your foot off the accelerator pedal, more

regenerative brake is applied than in the D (Drive)
position. However, during high-speed driving you
may feel that regenerative brake provides less
deceleration than the engine braking in an ordi-
nary vehicle. This is normal.

Less deceleration is provided by the regenerative
brake system when the Li-ion battery is fully
charged. Regenerative brake is automatically re-
duced when the Li-ion battery is fully charged to
prevent the Li-ion battery from becoming over-
charged. Regenerative brake is also automati-
cally reduced when the battery temperature is
high/low (indicated by the red/blue zones on the
battery temperature gauge) to prevent Li-ion bat-
tery damage.

The brake pedal should be used to slow or stop
the vehicle depending on traffic or road condi-
tions. The vehicle brakes are not affected by
regenerative brake system operation.

NOTE:

When applying the regenerative brakes,

you may hear a sound coming from the
regenerative brake system. This is a nor-
mal operating characteristic of an EV
(Electric vehicle).

BRAKE SYSTEM

5-20

Starting and driving

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