Nissan recalled 51 units of the 2026 Leaf after a manufacturing defect in which a battery cathode edge tears and folds inside the cell, creating an internal short circuit that can cause fire even when the vehicle is parked and off, according to Carscoops citing NHTSA filings. Two thermal events were reported, one in Japan on February 16 and one at a U.S. dealership on March 2, with neither vehicle charging or turned on at the time; Nissan has no repair available yet and recall letters begin April 17.
Operator takeaway
A recalled EV with no fix and instructions to not park near buildings is a fire risk on your lot. If a 2026 Leaf arrives on your flatbed or your yard, check the VIN against the recall and stage it away from buildings, inventory, and fuel storage.