Nissan Recalls 2021–2022 LEAF Over Battery Fire Risk During DC Fast Charging
What’s the Problem
Nissan North America, Inc. has issued a safety recall for certain 2021–2022 Nissan LEAF electric vehicles equipped with a Level 3 quick-charging port. The recall is identified by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number 25V655.
The issue involves the LEAF’s high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack, which may overheat during Level 3 (DC fast) charging, creating an increased risk of a battery fire. The defect is tied to excessive lithium deposits forming inside battery cells, which can raise internal electrical resistance and cause rapid battery heating when exposed to high-current charging. Multiple thermal events have been reported while vehicles were connected to public DC fast-charging stations.
Allegations
According to Nissan’s Safety Recall Report, certain battery packs supplied by Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) may develop internal defects that increase electrical resistance and allow the battery to heat rapidly during DC fast charging. The manufacturer acknowledges that drivers are not provided with any warning before a potential thermal event occurs.
Nissan estimates that approximately 19,077 vehicles are affected, with an estimated one percent potentially containing the defect. While Nissan reports no known injuries related to the issue, the risk remains significant because battery overheating events can escalate quickly and without advance notice.
Recall / TSB
Interim owner notification letters began mailing in October 2025, instructing owners not to use Level 3 quick charging until a remedy is available. Dealers were notified earlier that month. Nissan’s internal recall designation for this campaign is R25C8, and affected VINs are searchable through NHTSA’s recall database.
Nissan’s proposed remedy consists of a software update to the vehicle’s battery control system. The update is designed to monitor battery state-of-charge behavior and detect abnormal fluctuations that may indicate a developing thermal condition. If detected, the system may restrict charging or prevent vehicle restart and display a warning indicating reduced power. Nissan has indicated the software remedy is expected to be released in phases.
Symptoms
Owners of affected Nissan LEAF vehicles may encounter the following:
Restriction or avoidance of Level 3 quick charging, as Nissan has advised owners not to use DC fast charging until the recall remedy is completed
No advance warning prior to a thermal event, according to the recall documentation
Excessive battery heat during fast-charging sessions
“Service EV System – Power Reduced” messages after installation of the recall software if abnormal battery behavior is detected
Any combination of these symptoms should be taken seriously and documented immediately.
How to Proceed
If your 2021–2022 Nissan LEAF is subject to Recall 25V655:
Confirm recall status by checking your VIN with Nissan or NHTSA
Document issues by keeping records of charging problems, warning messages, service visits, and communications with the dealership
Follow safety guidance and avoid Level 3 quick charging until the remedy is installed
Schedule dealership service promptly once the software update becomes available
Retain all repair orders confirming recall work and any ongoing concerns
Under California law, repeated safety defects or significant loss of use may support a claim for repurchase or replacement. Regarding unrepairable defects like this, sometimes even a repair visit isn’t necessary.
Call Valero Law
If you own a 2020–2022 Nissan LEAF affected by Recall 25V655 and are experiencing ongoing safety or reliability issues that Nissan has not adequately resolved, you may be entitled to relief under California’s Lemon Law.
Potential remedies include a manufacturer buyback, vehicle replacement, or cash compensation.
Call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete our free Lemon Law case evaluation today.