How to use second-generation Nissan Leaf charge timer

The charge timer on the Nissan Leaf allows you to start charging your car at a time that suits you.
Setting the charge timer on the Nissan Leaf is as simple as choosing the relevant setting.
On this page, you’ll be through the steps required for activating your Leaf’s charge timer.
Let’s get started.

What does the charge timer do on the Nissan Leaf?

The Nissan Leaf’s charge timer allows you set the start and end times for your EV charging. It’s also variable by the days of the week on specific models.
This is most relevant in situations like overnight charging. When you get home after a busy working day and plug your Leaf in, you want it to be ready by tomorrow morning.
You could set the battery to charge from 6pm to midnight or 10pm to 6am – whatever times work best for you. Of course, this depends on the charging power of your outlet.
The Leaf charge timer can also be used to avoid overloading the local grid. If there’s likely to be a significant draw on your local electrical system at a particular time (for whatever reason), consider scheduling your car’s timing so it doesn’t contribute to a power outage.
Once you’ve chosen and set the charge timer settings, you don’t need to adjust them again. Not until you want to change them, at least.

How to activate the Nissan Leaf’s charge timer

Below, you’ll find instructions for activating the Nissan Leaf’s charge timer.
Use the up/down directional arrows to navigate through the menu and OK to select an option.

1. Go to EV settings.
2. Choose Charge Timer1 or Charge Timer2.
3. Select Timer to turn the selected timer on.
   • The indicator light will illuminate to show the timer is active.
4. Ensure your Leaf is in Park and switched off.
5. Plug your car into the charge connector and check that the charge lights come on.

How to adjust the timer on the Nissan Leaf

Adjusting the timer can be done in the same menu as activation. Find the instructions listed below.

1. Head to EV settings.
2. Select the relevant timer (1 or 2).
3. Choose Start time.
4. Adjust the hour reading using the up/down arrows and then press OK. Do the same thing to change the minute setting.
5. Repeat Step 4 after selecting End time.
6. If applicable, you can also adjust the days the charger should be active. For example, you might only want to use it on weekdays.
7. At the top of the menu, turn the timer ON.
8. Turn the power switch OFF and plug your car in to charge. Check the charging timer indicator lights come on.

What are the best settings for the Leaf’s charge timer?

The best time to use the Nissan Leaf’s charge timer is to make the most of lower utilities costs at night. Often, the cheapest electrical rates are after midnight and through to the early hours of the morning.
Setting your charge timer to charge from 12pm to 8am is the best way to take advantage of these lower costs.
In most circumstances, your car will charge faster than your selected timer length.
Once the car’s batteries reach a preset charge limit, charging stops. This defaults at 100%. Provided you’re using a Level 2 (240-Volt) charger, this shouldn’t take too long.
Using a Level 2 charger, most customers report a full charge in around 8 to 10 hours. Expect to see battery level increases of 10% to 13% per hour.
The exact method for setting a charge limit varies from generation to generation on the Nissan Leaf.

Alternatives to the Nissan Leaf charge timer

The charge timer is great for starting the charge cycle at a specific time. However, it doesn’t work for everyone. For instance, you might not know how long you’re going to be away from your car.
The best alternative to the charge timer is the EV Companion app.

1. Log in to your EV Companion app.
2. Select Timer Override.

This, unsurprisingly, overrides the charge timer. Charging starts or stops whenever you press the button – provided your Leaf is plugged in.
This also works if you forget to activate or adjust the timer before leaving your car.

Check out a PDF from the owner’s manual here.