Nissan Brake Fluid Leak May Pose Fire Risk in 200K SUV, Sedans

More than 215,000 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles are subject to a massive recall, due to a risk that a faulty brake pump may leak fluid and result in fires. 

The Nissan recall was announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on September 19, after it was discovered that a faulty brake pump could allow brake fluid to leak onto a circuit board and cause an electrical short or fire. To date there have been no auto accidents or fires linked to the defect.

The affected vehicles have an antilock brake actuator pump which regulates the fluid pressure during braking. However, a seal in the antilock brake actuator pump may be loose and allow brake fluid to leak. If the fluid leaks onto a circuit board, it could cause an electrical short and lead to a fire.

The recall includes 2015 to 2017 Nissan Murano SUVs, 2016 to 2017 Nissan Maxima sedans, 2017 to 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SUVs, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 SUVs. Nissan estimates 56% of the vehicles in the recall have the problem.

When the leak does occur, the ABS warning lamp will light up on the dashboard for 10 seconds or more after the engine has started. If this happens, Nissan recommends owners do not drive the vehicle and park it outside away from buildings until it can be fixed. At that point, owners should contact Nissan Roadside Assistance to have the vehicle towed to the nearest Nissan service department.

Otherwise, owners of the affected vehicles will be notified starting on October 15. The notice will advise owners to take their vehicle to a dealership to have the part replaced free of charge. Customers with further questions can contact Nissan Customer service at 800-867-7669.