A recent topic was brought up in regards to the Nissan LEAF recommending an annual brake service, including changing the brake fluid.
According to The Nissan LEAF's Service and Maintenance Guide, it is recommended to change the brake fluid every 12 months, 15,000 miles. ----->
Several online forum posters thought this was a way for Nissan to make money off customers, while only a few thought it was nothing to be concerned over and did not mind this annual annual service.
This annual service, including the brake fluid change, is claimed to cost ~$125 dollars
However, it is understandable that many would ask why Nissan recommends this annual service, seeing how some vehicles have a brake fluid interval upwards of over 100,000 miles. The LEAF calls for "Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3."
I was eager to find answers because I was curious as well. So, I went directly to the source, Nissan.
During a live chat, I asked a few questions to find out exactly why Nissan calls for this annual brake fluid service.
Read the following chat closely:
I did feel it was necessary to edit out the service provider's name, but to show the entire conversation. No rigs.
So, with what you have just read above in mind, a matter of ~$125 dollars a year to ensure the longevity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the LEAF's braking systems and components is fine by us. Do you agree?
We believe that it is highly important to follow the service and maintenance guide for any vehicle out there. From a small little quibble to a very severe issue that could arise, why take that chance?
We are uncertain if other all electric vehicles recommend brake fluid change intervals annually, but we are eager to find that out and will provide a follow up for when & if.
We were impressed by how well the service provider handled this. Very polite and professional. Hat tip again to Nissan!
*Editor's note: This was from the 2014 Nissan LEAF service and maintenance guide. This cyber conversation was held on August 19th, 2014. We can correctly assume that this also applies to the 2013 & 2015 LEAF, as the components are mostly the same.