These instructions apply to the Nissan Leaf Mk1 (ZE0) 2011-2017.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
If the Intelligent Key battery in your Nissan Leaf (ZE0, 2011–2017) dies, the power switch may not respond and an Intelligent Key battery-discharge indicator appears on the display. You can still start the car — the power switch has a backup that reads the key by touch.
How to Start With a Dead Key Battery
- Press the P (Park) position switch on the selector lever.
- Firmly apply the foot brake and keep it pressed.
- Touch the power switch with the Intelligent Key as shown in the vehicle’s illustration — a chime sounds to confirm the key has been read.
- Within 10 seconds of the chime, press the power switch while still holding the brake. The car changes to READY to drive mode.
- Drive as normal, and replace the key battery as soon as you can.
If you press the power switch without the brake after touching the key, it goes to ACC instead of READY — press again with the brake down to drive.
Why It Works
There is a backup antenna built into the power switch. Touching the key to it lets the antenna read the transponder directly, even when the fob’s own battery is too flat to transmit. The discharge indicator keeps showing until you fit a fresh cell; you can stop it blinking by touching the key to the switch again.
If It Still Will Not Start
Make sure the selector is in P and the brake is firmly pressed, and touch the exact face of the switch shown in the manual. If nothing responds at all — no lights, no chime — the 12-volt battery may be flat (a different fault from the key); the Leaf then needs its 12-volt battery charged or jump started before it will power up. Fit a new key battery (a CR2025) at the first opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which battery does the key take? A CR2025 coin cell — see our key-fob battery replacement guide.
Does touching the key start it on its own? No — touching only lets the system read the key; you still press the power switch with the brake to enter READY.
The discharge indicator stays on after a new battery. Touch the key to the power switch once more; it clears when the system next reads a healthy key.
Is my 12-volt battery the problem instead? If there is no response at all, suspect the 12-volt battery, not the key.
If a warning lamp stays on afterwards, our sister site autodtcs.com lists diagnostic trouble codes.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Nissan. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.