I've had some experience with the 2017 Nissan Leaf, and overall, it's been quite reliable. The battery life is decent; when new, the 30 kWh battery gave around 100-107 miles range on a full charge, but it might be less depending on the vehicle’s age and battery degradation. Charging times are pretty standard for this model, taking about 5-6 hours with a 240V charger. For longer trips, it requires more planning as you'll need to find charging stations, but it can handle occasional longer drives if you're strategic about charging.
In terms of maintenance, one common issue to watch out for is the battery capacity loss over time, especially in hotter climates that can accelerate degradation. Regularly updating the car's software can help maintain performance. It's also a good idea to occasionally check the brake pads and tire pressure, as these can affect efficiency. Overall, the Leaf offers a very practical and reliable option for daily commuting and short trips. If you’re looking for more detailed insights, forums dedicated to electric vehicles and Nissan Leaf owner groups can be great resources.