NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Nissan has announced a recall affecting more than 480,000 vehicles across the United States and Canada due to potential manufacturing defects that could increase the risk of accidents. The action is spurred by a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which revealed that approximately 443,900 of the recalled vehicles are in the U.S.
The recall encompasses various models, including the 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, the 2021-2024 Nissan Rogue, the 2019-2020 Nissan Altima, and the 2022 Infiniti QX55. These vehicles are equipped with specific VC-Turbo engines that may suffer from bearing defects, potentially leading to engine failure. According to NHTSA estimates, around 1.2 percent of the recalled models could possess this defect.
The agency noted that bearing failures do not occur instantly and may progress over time, with signs including unusual sounds or warning lights that indicate potential vehicle malfunctions. Owners of the affected models are encouraged to visit their local Nissan or Infiniti dealerships for an inspection of the engine pan.
The inspection process aims to determine the appropriate steps for repair or replacement of the engine, depending on the extent of any damage or the presence of debris discovered during the evaluation. Repairs for the impacted vehicles will be offered at no cost to owners.
For vehicles featuring the 3-cylinder 1.5L VC-Turbo engine, if no debris is found, dealers will replace the oil pan gasket, change the engine oil, and reprogram the engine control module. In cases involving the 4-cylinder 2.0L VC-Turbo engine, the dealers will solely replace the engine oil if no debris is detected.
Dealers will be informed of additional details regarding the recall on July 15, while affected vehicle owners will receive notifications by August 25. This prompt communication will detail the necessary steps for inspection and repair.
This recall is part of a broader trend in which multiple manufacturers are recalling vehicles due to safety concerns this year. Honda recently implemented a significant recall affecting more than 294,600 vehicles due to issues that could lead to engine stalls. Earlier this year, Volkswagen and Hyundai also issued recalls for hazardous conditions, which included risks of engine fires in certain models.
As automotive recalls continue to rise, Nissan’s recent decision underscores the importance of safety in the manufacturing process, reflecting a growing commitment to addressing potential hazards before they escalate. Vehicle owners are advised to stay informed about recalls affecting their models and take prompt action for any necessary inspections or repairs.