NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Nissan is recalling more than 443,000 vehicles due to concerns about the performance of its innovative variable-compression turbocharged engines. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recall, which affects various models powered by the VC-Turbo engine, prompting a deeper look into the technology and its reliability.
The recalled vehicles include the 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, 2022 Infiniti QX55, 2019-2020 Nissan Altima, and 2021-2024 Nissan Rogue. Among these, the Nissan Rogue is the most significantly impacted, accounting for over 348,000 of the affected units. The recall targets both the three-cylinder and four-cylinder engine variants, which were designed to adapt compression ratios for enhanced performance or fuel efficiency.
The NHTSA identified potential bearing failures as the core issue with the VC-Turbo engines, which may lead to engine damage. A defect in specific components can result in what is termed a “loss of motive power,” elevating the risk of accidents while driving. While the prospect of engine failure is concerning, experts note that such failures typically manifest gradually, allowing drivers to seek repairs before complete breakdowns occur.
For those who own one of the affected vehicles, Nissan assures that the checkups and repairs will come at no cost. Additionally, the estimates suggest that only about 1.2% of the engines involved may actually exhibit defects, meaning the vast majority—98.8%—remain unaffected. It’s important for owners to remain vigilant about their vehicles’ performance, but they should not panic as the issue is manageable.
Despite the advanced engineering behind the VC-Turbo engine, the recall serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in automotive innovation. Initially designed to provide the power of a larger engine when needed and the efficiency of a smaller one otherwise, the technology was met with mixed reviews. Now, with this recall, the spotlight is once again on Nissan’s engineering choices and their real-world implications.
As drivers navigate the recalled models, they are encouraged to visit the NHTSA’s website to verify if their car falls under the recall. Experts recommend staying informed and proactive about vehicle maintenance, especially for those owning models from 2019 to 2024. Nissan’s commitment to addressing these issues underscores the importance the automotive industry places on safety.
With an expansive fleet of vehicles on the road, the company understands the necessity of timely recalls and transparent communication. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, manufacturers like Nissan must balance cutting-edge technology with reliability to maintain consumer trust and ensure safety on the roads.