If you own a 2013 Nissan Leaf, you may be wondering how to put a heater on it. The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric car, so it doesn’t have a traditional gasoline-powered engine that generates heat. Instead, the Leaf uses an electric heating system to keep the cabin warm. There are a few different ways to activate the heater on a 2013 Nissan Leaf. One way is to use the climate control system on the dashboard. Another way is to use the NissanConnect app on your smartphone. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to put a heater on a 2013 Nissan Leaf using both methods.
The Nissan Leaf’s climate control system is located on the dashboard. To turn on the heater, simply press the “Heat” button. The temperature can be adjusted using the up and down arrows. The fan speed can be adjusted using the fan speed knob. If you want to direct the airflow to a specific area, you can use the vents to do so. The climate control system also has an automatic mode, which will adjust the temperature and fan speed based on the ambient temperature. To activate automatic mode, simply press the “Auto” button.
You can also use the NissanConnect app to turn on the heater on your 2013 Nissan Leaf. To do this, open the NissanConnect app on your smartphone and select your vehicle. Then, tap on the “Climate” tab and select the “Heat” option. You can adjust the temperature and fan speed using the sliders on the screen. The NissanConnect app also allows you to schedule the heater to turn on at a specific time. This can be useful if you want to warm up your car before you get in it on a cold day. To schedule the heater, simply tap on the “Schedule” tab and select the time you want the heater to turn on.
Understand Your Options
Deciding on the best heater for your 2013 Nissan Leaf requires understanding your options. Consider the following factors to make an informed choice:
1. Type of Heater
There are three main types of heaters available for the Nissan Leaf:
- Resistance Heaters: These are the most common type of heater, using an electric current to heat a coil. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but can be less efficient than other options.
- Heat Pumps: These heaters use a refrigerant cycle to transfer heat from the outside air to the inside of the car. They are more efficient than resistance heaters, especially in colder climates, but can be more expensive to purchase and install.
- Hydronic Heaters: These heaters use a heated fluid to circulate heat throughout the car. They are the most efficient type of heater but also the most expensive and difficult to install. For a table that details this information, please refer to the following table (Table 1).
| Heater Type | Efficiency | Cost | Installation Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resistance Heater | Low | Low | Easy |
| Heat Pump | High | High | Moderate |
| Hydronic Heater | Very High | Very High | Difficult |
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before you begin the installation process, it’s important to prepare your electric vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your 2013 Nissan Leaf ready:
Step 1: Park Safely
Choose a well-ventilated area to park your Nissan Leaf. Make sure the area has ample space to maneuver and avoid any obstructions or hazards.
Step 2: Safety Precautions
Before working on any electrical components, always prioritize safety. Here’s a detailed checklist to ensure proper safety measures are taken:
Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a wrench. This will isolate the electrical system and prevent any accidental contact. It’s crucial to double-check that the connection is secure and the wire is free of any damage or fraying. Additionally, wear appropriate safety equipment such as gloves and eye protection.
| Safety Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Disconnect Battery Terminal | Isolates electrical system, preventing accidental contact |
| Use Safety Equipment | Protects from potential shocks or debris |
| Secure Vehicle | Prevents movement during installation |
Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
To begin the process of installing a heater in your 2013 Nissan Leaf, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials. These components will ensure a smooth and efficient installation.
Essential Tools:
- Wrench set (metric and standard sizes)
- Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
- Socket set (metric and standard sizes)
- Torx bit set
- Trim removal tool
Necessary Materials:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heater | 1 |
| Harness | 1 |
| Mounting brackets | 2 |
| Hose clamps | 4 |
| Electrical tape | 1 roll |
| Coolant | 1 gallon |
Caution: It is recommended to purchase only genuine Nissan parts for the heater installation. This will ensure that the heater functions optimally and fits seamlessly into your vehicle.
Remove Front Grille
To remove the front grille, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver and a flat head screwdriver. Follow these steps:
- Open the hood of the car.
- Locate the two Phillips head screws at the top of the grille. Remove these screws.
- Locate the two flat head screws at the bottom of the grille. Remove these screws.
- Carefully pull the grille straight out from the vehicle. Be careful not to damage the grille or the surrounding body panels.
Refer to the table below for additional tips on removing the front grille.
Description Tips Removing the screws Be careful not to strip the screws. Use the correct size screwdriver and apply even pressure. Pulling out the grille Do not pull on the grille too hard, as this could damage the grille or the surrounding body panels. Locate Heater Core
The heater core is located inside the dashboard of the 2013 Nissan Leaf. To access it, you will need to remove the following:
- Steering wheel
- Dashboard cover
- Instrument cluster
- Center console
Once you have removed these components, you will be able to see the heater core. It is located behind the dashboard and is connected to the heater hoses.
Here are the detailed steps on how to remove the dashboard and locate the heater core:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Remove the steering wheel.
- Remove the dashboard cover.
- Remove the instrument cluster.
- Remove the center console.
- Locate the heater core behind the dashboard. It is connected to the heater hoses.
Step Description 1 Disconnect the negative battery terminal. 2 Remove the steering wheel. 3 Remove the dashboard cover. 4 Remove the instrument cluster. 5 Remove the center console. 6 Locate the heater core behind the dashboard. It is connected to the heater hoses. Remove and Replace Heater Core
To access the heater core, you’ll need to remove the dashboard. This involves a range of tasks, including:
- Disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery.
- Removing the steering wheel.
- Taking out the instrument cluster.
- Unbolting the dashboard and carefully lifting it out of place.
Removing the Heater Core
Once the dashboard is removed, you can access the heater core by following these steps:
- Locate the heater core, which is usually situated behind the glove box.
- Disconnect the hoses that are connected to the heater core.
- Unbolt the mounting bolts that hold the heater core in place.
- Carefully remove the heater core from the vehicle.
Replacing the Heater Core
To replace the heater core, follow these steps in reverse order:
- Position the new heater core in place and secure it with the mounting bolts.
- Reconnect the hoses to the heater core.
- Reinstall the dashboard.
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
- Test the heater to ensure it is functioning properly.
Reinstall Front Grille
When you reinstall the front grille, ensure these steps are taken to firmly secure it in place.
1. Align the grille with the mounting points on the front fascia.
2. Press down on the grille to snap it into place.
3. Start with the top of the grille and work your way down, pressing each side into place.
4. Ensure it is firmly seated and there are no gaps between the grille and the fascia.
5. If the grille is not aligned correctly, remove it and start over.
6. Once the grille is installed, check that it is secure and does not move.
7. Inspect the grille to ensure it is undamaged and free of any obstructions. Check that the grille is properly aligned and flush with the front fascia. Confirm that the grille does not interfere with any other components, such as the hood or headlights. Use a flashlight or a work light to examine the grille thoroughly and identify any potential issues. Look for cracks, dents, or any other damage to the grille. If any damage is found, the grille should be repaired or replaced to prevent further issues.
Flush Coolant System
Flushing the coolant system is a crucial step in maintaining the health of your 2013 Nissan Leaf’s heating system. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
1. Safety First
Allow the engine to cool down completely. Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid any contact with hot coolant.
2. Locate the Drain Plug
Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator. Place a drain pan underneath to catch the coolant.
3. Open the Drain Plug
With a wrench, carefully unscrew the drain plug. Be aware that the coolant will start draining out immediately.
4. Drain the Coolant
Allow all the coolant to drain out into the drain pan.
5. Close the Drain Plug
Once the coolant has stopped draining, tighten the drain plug back into place.
6. Fill with Flush Solution
Pour a gallon of coolant flush solution into the radiator. Run the engine for 10-15 minutes with the heater turned on high.
7. Drain and Rinse
Repeat steps 3-5 to drain the flush solution. Rinse the radiator with plain water several times.
8. Fill with Coolant
Mix the new coolant with water according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pour the coolant mixture into the radiator until it reaches the specified level. Refer to the table below for the recommended coolant mixture:
Region Coolant Mixture Cold Climates 50/50 coolant to water Moderate Climates 60/40 coolant to water Warm Climates 70/30 coolant to water Bleed the cooling system by running the engine with the heater on high until all air bubbles are released.
Check for Leaks
Before starting any work, it’s crucial to ensure there are no leaks in the cooling system. A leak can cause significant damage if left unattended, so it’s essential to check for any potential issues before proceeding further.
Visual Inspection:
- Pop the hood and allow the engine to cool down completely.
- Thoroughly inspect all hoses, pipes, and connections for any cracks, leaks, or loose fittings.
- Look for any signs of coolant leaking from the radiator, heater core, or water pump.
Pressure Test:
If you don’t observe any visible leaks, you can perform a pressure test to detect any hidden leaks. This involves using a special pressure tester to pressurize the cooling system and then monitoring for any pressure drops over time. A drop in pressure indicates a leak in the system, and you’ll need to locate and repair it before proceeding.
Coolant Level Check:
Once you’ve completed the visual inspection and pressure test, check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir. If the coolant level is low, it could indicate a leak or evaporation. Top off the coolant to the proper level as indicated on the reservoir.
Common Leak Points:
Here are some common areas where leaks may occur in the cooling system of a 2013 Nissan Leaf:
| Area | Potential Leaks |
|—|—|
| Hoses | Cracked or leaking hoses |
| Clamps | Loose or corroded clamps |
| Radiator | Holes or cracks in the radiator |
| Heater Core | Internal leaks or corrosion |
| Water Pump | Seal failure or leaks around the shaft |If you identify any leaks, it’s essential to repair them promptly to prevent further damage to your Nissan Leaf’s cooling system.
Locate the Climate Control Panel
Find the climate control panel on your dashboard, usually located in the center.
Adjust the Temperature Dial
Turn the temperature dial clockwise to increase the desired temperature.
Activate the Heat Mode
Press the “Heat” button to activate the heating system.
Adjust the Fan Speed
Use the fan speed adjustment knob or buttons to control the intensity of the airflow.
Select the Desired Airflow Direction
Adjust the vents to direct the airflow towards the desired areas, such as the windshield, feet, or face.
Use the Recirculation Mode (Optional)
If necessary, activate the recirculation mode to use the interior air and reduce cold air from outside.
Utilize the Defrost Button (Optional)
Press the “Defrost” button to quickly clear frost or fog from the windshield.
Consider Heated Seats (Optional)
Activate the heated seats to provide additional warmth and comfort while driving.
Check the Heater Core and Coolant Levels
Occasionally, inspect the heater core and coolant levels to ensure proper operation and prevent overheating.
Troubleshooting Tips
If the heater is not working properly, refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repairs.
How To Put A Heater On A 2013 Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf is an electric car that does not have a traditional gasoline engine. As a result, it does not have a heater core that is heated by the engine. Instead, the Leaf uses an electric heater to warm the cabin.
To turn on the heater, press the “Climate” button on the center console. Then, use the up and down arrows to adjust the temperature. You can also press the “Auto” button to allow the climate control system to automatically adjust the temperature.
If you are having trouble getting the heater to work, check the following:
- The battery is charged.
- The climate control system is turned on.
- The temperature is set to a high enough setting.
- The air filter is clean.
- There are no blockages in the heater vents.
People Also Ask About How To Put A Heater On A 2013 Nissan Leaf
How do I turn on the heater in my 2013 Nissan Leaf?
Press the “Climate” button on the center console, then use the up and down arrows to adjust the temperature.
Why is the heater in my 2013 Nissan Leaf not working?
Check the following:
- The battery is charged.
- The climate control system is turned on.
- The temperature is set to a high enough setting.
- The air filter is clean.
- There are no blockages in the heater vents.
How do I change the heater core in my 2013 Nissan Leaf?
The heater core is not a user-serviceable part. If you need to replace the heater core, you will need to take your car to a qualified mechanic.
