Nissan Leaf Owners Manual | 2025
9.5.1.1. Starting vehicle
After placing the vehicle in the READY to drive position, fully depress the footbrake pedal and push the shift button R (Reverse) or D (Drive) position.
The shift buttons of this vehicle are designed so that the footbrake pedal must be depressed before shifting from the P (Park) position to any driving position while the power switch is in the READY to drive position.
The shift position other than P (Park) cannot be selected if the power switch is placed in the OFF position.
Release the parking brake and footbrake pedal, and then gradually start the vehicle in motion.
Do not depress the accelerator pedal while shifting from P (Park) or N (Neutral) to R (Reverse) or D (Drive) position. Always depress the brake pedal until shifting is completed. Failure to do so could cause you to lose control, which could result in an accident.
Never shift to either the P (Park) or R (Reverse) position while the vehicle is moving forward and P (Park), D (Drive) position while the vehicle reversing. This could cause an accident or damage the transmission.
To avoid possible damage to your vehicle, when stopping the vehicle on an uphill slope, do not hold the vehicle by depressing the accelerator pedal. The footbrake should be used for this purpose.
When the vehicle passes a step, press the brake to slow down and driver as slowly as possible. The impact of getting on and off the steps may damage the drivetrain parts.