Nissan Engine Failure Issue Leads to Recall Affecting More Than 440,000 Vehicles: NHTSA

Manufacturer is recalling both standard and luxury-brand vehicles due to potentially defective engine components that could cause sudden engine failure.

Federal highway safety officials have announced a recall of 443,899 Nissan vehicles, due to a potential manufacturing defect that could cause engine failures, increasing the risk of an auto accident.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the Nissan engine failure recall on June 27, warning that certain vehicles may have defects in engine bearings or related components, which could cause severe engine damage, leading to the engine seizing or failing.

Engine bearings play a vital role in internal combustion engines, supporting key moving parts like the crankshaft and connecting rods to ensure smooth rotation with minimal friction. When these bearings begin to fail, friction and heat can rapidly build up, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage. In some cases, the engine may seize while the vehicle is in motion, putting drivers and passengers at serious risk.

This defect not only creates a significant safety hazard, but it may also leave owners facing costly repairs or stranded on the road without warning.

On July 1, Nissan issued a voluntary recall for several vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The affected models include:

• 2019–2022 Infiniti QX50
• 2019–2020 Nissan Altima
• 2021–2024 Nissan Rogue
• 2022 Infiniti QX55

Although Nissan has not yet released a detailed explanation of what led to the defect, engine bearing failures often develop gradually. Drivers may notice early warning signs such as abnormal engine noises, rough idling or performance, illuminated malfunction indicator lights or dashboard warning messages.

Starting August 25, owners of the recalled vehicles will begin receiving official notification letters with instructions on how to schedule a free inspection. Technicians will check the engine oil pan for signs of metal debris, which is a potential indicator of internal damage. If necessary, Nissan will replace the engine, oil pan gasket or engine oil, and may reprogram the engine control module as part of the repair.

As of now, the NHTSA has not reported any accidents or injuries related to the defect.

Customers can contact Nissan customer service at 800-647-7261 and Infiniti customer service at 1-800-662-6200, or the company’s contact for this recall, Debora Crews, via email at debora.crews@dot.gov.

Owners with any additional questions can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

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