Bilbobaker wrote:I would eventually like to replace my battery when it drops to low bars.. however this seems like something I should be able to do myself ..
I have rebuilt motors transmissions and done all the maintenance needed for all my previous vehicles so why not the simple battery exchange on my 2013 Nissan Leaf?
I agree with your sentiment however we are entering into a new era of motor vehicles where we no longer own them lock stock and barrell. Manufacturers are beginning a trend towards obstructing non approved repairs and parts from going into service.
Tesla are famous for intentionally bricking cars. Enthusiasts attempting to put a Tesla chassis and drivetrain into another vehicle using salvaged vehicles find that Tesla can remotely brick the cars OTA if they detect this activity.
There is an EV enthusiast, Jack Ricard, who obtained a practically new Smart EV car without a battery. He enquired about buying a new pack from Mercedes, after some humming and harring they gave him a price but backed out of the deal suddenly when he tried to order the battery when they realised he didn't have a core to return. As far as I am aware he never did get them to sell him the battery. What this means essentially is that we buy a battery that comes included with a car.
Only a few states have "right to repair" laws that protect consumers from this disturbing practice.