2016 Nissan LEAF Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Nissan LEAF: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Nissan LEAF has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Nissan LEAF has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 Nissan LEAF?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Nissan LEAF, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or improperly sealed cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning indicators, as these can offer further insights into the problem. Pay attention to any unusual noises or odors emanating from the vehicle, as these sensory clues can help narrow down potential issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process; it allows you to retrieve specific error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing a clearer picture of what might be wrong. Finally, consult your owner's manual for tailored guidance on the check engine light, as it may contain manufacturer-specific troubleshooting steps that can assist you in resolving the issue. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and address the cause of the check engine light, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Nissan LEAF?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2016 Nissan LEAF, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is tightened properly. If that’s not the issue, consider the oxygen sensor, which monitors the air-fuel mixture and can fail over time, leading to increased emissions and reduced fuel efficiency. Another potential culprit is the catalytic converter, which can become clogged or damaged, affecting the vehicle's performance. Additionally, the mass airflow sensor, responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine, can malfunction, causing the engine to run inefficiently. Worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can also lead to misfires, triggering the check engine light. Lastly, a malfunctioning thermostat can affect engine temperature regulation, prompting the warning light to illuminate. While some of these issues can be addressed with basic DIY skills, it’s crucial to have a diagnostic scan performed to pinpoint the exact problem, ensuring you can resolve it effectively and maintain your vehicle’s performance.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Nissan LEAF?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Nissan LEAF, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it indicates that there may be a significant problem with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this alert can lead to a cascade of issues, including decreased fuel efficiency and performance problems, which can ultimately result in costly repairs. Moreover, continuing to drive with the check engine light on can cause further damage to the engine or other vital components, jeopardizing both your vehicle's functionality and your safety on the road. Therefore, it is highly advisable to have your LEAF diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. By taking prompt action, you can prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition and providing you with a safe driving experience.

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