Nissan recalls 3,788 new 2026 Leaf EVs over rear seat belt defect found in Consumer Reports test

Nissan is recalling 3,788 new 2026 Leaf EVs in the United States after Consumer Reports testing on 22 April 2026 revealed that rear outboard seat belt automatic locking retractors may loosen or deactivate early, failing to secure child seats properly and breaching federal Occupant Crash Protection standards. The defect, traced to a supplier and affecting only the 2026 Leaf, does not impact adult passenger use or LATCH child seat systems, and Nissan reports no accidents or injuries. Dealers will replace the faulty assemblies free of charge, with a fix expected this winter and owner notification letters mailing on 17 July 2026.

Why it matters: Fleet operators and workplace charging hosts deploying 2026 Leaf models must coordinate recall compliance to avoid liability and downtime, particularly if vehicles serve staff or visitors transporting children. The supplier specific defect and swift regulatory response underscore due diligence requirements for procurement teams evaluating new EV models for corporate or public fleets.