Improper Programming on Rear Camera Necessitates Large Nissan Recall

Improper Programming on Rear Camera Necessitates Large Nissan Recall

September 25, 2019 Sean Reyes ,

Laguna Hills, CA – Sep. 25, 2019 – Improper programming that potentially affects the back-up camera display included with various 2018-2019 Nissan vehicles has caused the manufacturer to announce a recall applying to more than 1,200,000 automobiles.

On the vehicles being recalled, adjustments made by the driver to the rear camera display settings will be retained at the start of the next backing event—meaning the image seen on the vehicle’s display while backing up will not necessarily represent the default camera perspective. This is not compliant with current federal regulations, necessitating the Nissan recall.

The Defect

The cause for this recall is perhaps better described as a matter of “non-compliance” than as a defect. According to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, the rear visibility system of vehicles manufactured on or after May 1, 2018 must return to a default image at the beginning of each backing event, regardless of whatever modifications were selected during prior trips. If the camera is not in the default position at the beginning of each new backing event, then the possibility of collision or accident increases.

On a large number of 2018-2019 Nissan vehicles, the rear camera image does not return to the default position at the start of each backing event, but instead retains any modifications previously selected by the driver. This vehicles are not in compliance with the FMVSS standard, and as a result have to be recalled. The full list of automobiles that are subject to the recall are as follows:

  • 2018-2019 Infiniti Q50
  • 2018-2019 Infiniti Q60
  • 2018-2019 Infiniti Q70
  • 2018-2019 Infiniti QX30
  • 2018-2019 Infiniti QX50
  • 2018-2019 Infiniti QX60
  • 2018-2019 Infiniti QX80
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Altima
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Armada
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Frontier
  • 2018-2019 Nissan GT-R
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Kicks
  • 2018-2019 Nissan LEAF
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Maxima
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Murano
  • 2018-2019 Nissan NV
  • 2018-2019 Nissan NV200
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Pathfinder
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Rogue
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Sentra
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Taxi
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Titan
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Titan Diesel
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Versa Note
  • 2018-2019 Nissan Versa Sedan

Documents filed to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by Nissan explain: “The original adjustment settings that were applied to the rear visibility system and are subject to the non-compliance are not used on any other Nissan or Infiniti vehicles [other than those listed above] … Therefore, no other Nissan or Infiniti vehicles are affected by this condition.”

Timeline of Events

Nissan transmitted a non-compliance information report describing the error on September 12, 2019. They estimate that the mistake applies to a total of 1.23 million model year 2018-2019 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles in total, and that all of those vehicles without exception “contain the noncompliance.”

On September 20, 2019, Nissan submitted a safety recall report pertaining to the issue, and clarified the schedule by which vehicle owners will be notified of the defect: Depending on the make and model of their vehicles, customers will be notified either on the week of October 21 or the week of November 4. All Vehicle Identification Numbers on the affected automobiles will be active at the time of the phased dealer notification, according to Nissan, which is scheduled to begin on October 7 and to conclude either on or before November 11.

Solution

Owners of the vehicles containing the noncompliance will be notified sometime in the range of the dates listed above. At that point, they may bring their vehicle to a local dealer, who will reprogram the rear visibility system software at no cost.

The reprogramming will bring the vehicle into compliance by limiting the adjustments that can be made to the camera display to an extent that ensures the view always remains within the range dictated dictated by FMVSS No. 111.

For more information on recalls announced by Nissan or other major automobile manufacturers, continue visiting MotorSafety.org.

Sean ReyesImproper Programming on Rear Camera Necessitates Large Nissan Recall
Infiniti recall update: Some cars with defect not included

Infiniti recall update: Some cars with defect not included

January 15, 2019 Sean Reyes ,

 

Nashville, Tenn., Jan. 15, 2019 – Infiniti’s recall of its EX35 sedan affected 200,000 vehicles that may have a faulty passenger-side air bag sensor.

According to a recent NBC report, this action did not target every car with the defect, despite its relatively large scale. Owners of vehicles from models outside the year range covered by the recall may find the same issue in their vehicles, but with those cars not covered by the complimentary replacement offer, the drivers have to pay out of pocket to safeguard their air bags.

Looking back at the initial National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall of Infiniti vehicles, reported back in 2008 by U.S. News & World Report, the cars that did receive official notices for faulty passenger-side air bag sensors were:

2007 – 2008

  • Infiniti G35
  • Infiniti G37
  • Infiniti EX35
  • Nissan Altima
  • Nissan 350Z
  • Nissan Rogue
  • Nissan Murano.

The vehicle still on the road that may contain the same part is a later model, the 2009 Infiniti G35. In total, more than 200,000 cars and sport utility vehicles were involved across the Infiniti and Nissan nameplates.

The Defect

The cars in question use an occupant classification system to determine whether to deploy an air bag on the passenger side in the case of a collision. The sensor involved in the recall is the part that tells a vehicle if there is someone in the right-side seat. When the component is defective, the air bag system may overlook the presence of a passenger, with the circuit becoming interrupted. In such a case, the airbag may fail to deploy and the occupants of the car would not be adequately protected.

U.S. News noted at the time of the initial recall that many automakers had problems with passenger-side sensors in 2008. BMW and Hyundai recalled an combined 600,000 for similar issues. The newspaper recommended that even cars that haven’t officially been recalled should likely receive inspections. This proved to be relevant, as a similar defect appeared more than 10 years later.

NBC explained the 2009 Infiniti found to have the defect was purchased new, and is now out of warranty. Several owners of vehicles made by Nissan and Infiniti have complained of similar defects to the NHTSA but been unable to receive free-of-charge service because their cars were produced after the 2007-2008 window included in the recall. A Center of Auto Safety representative replied that making complaints is important, as it helps set the recall process in motion.

Timeline of Events

All the cars involved in the recall come from the 2007 and 2008 model years, and they received an “urgent recall alert” in October 2008. The timeline becomes more complicated, however, when considering the possibility that the defect may occur on vehicles that haven’t yet received an official recall notice, more than 10 years after the fact. NBC published its report about this potential scenario in January 2019.

The Solution

Fixing the sensor problem involves using a detector to determine whether the part is defective, then replacing the entire seat cushion if there is a problem with the component. NBC reported that this process, when carried out on a car not covered by the recall, could cost over $4,000. Infiniti did offer to take on the majority of the cost in the case covered by the news organization, bringing the bill to $1,000. For recalled vehicles, the dealer does not charge to make the change.

Sean ReyesInfiniti recall update: Some cars with defect not included
Over 1,600 2019 Infiniti vehicles recalled by Nissan for faulty air bag modules

Over 1,600 2019 Infiniti vehicles recalled by Nissan for faulty air bag modules

September 21, 2018 Sean Reyes

Lilburn, Georgia – Sept. 21, 2018: Nissan North America, Inc. is recalling certain 2019 INFINITI QX50 vehicles due to an air bag module defect that increases risk of injury for passenger seat drivers in the event of a crash.

The recall includes just over 1,600 vehicles manufactured between July 4, 2018, and August 24, 2018, with the chances of any specific vehicle suffering a defect being 1 percent, according to the NHTSA safety recall report. No other INFINITI (or Nissan) vehicles are affected by this issue because the affected passenger-side knee air bag module is unique to this model and those dates of manufacture.

The Defect

In the event of a crash in very cold temperatures, the trim cover may separate unexpectedly from the passenger-side knee air bag module instead of splitting at the trim cover tear seam as designed. If the passenger-side knee air bag cover detaches during deployment, it can increase the risk of injury.

According to an INFINITI campaign bulletin, the manufacturer strongly recommends that if a vehicle is confirmed to be affected, this safety recall repair performed as soon as possible. Owners are urged to contact their retailer as soon as possible to schedule an appointment, and in the meantime to not allow passengers to ride in the front passenger seat.

Timeline of Events

In August 2018, while a supplier was conducting a low temperature lot acceptance test, the passenger-side knee air bag cover detached from the air bag module during deployment. The supplier launched an investigation, and two weeks later the plant and supplier quarantined all passenger-side knee air bag modules.

The investigation found that certain passenger-side knee air bag modules had been manufactured with an out-of-specification tear seam thickness, and the knee air bag cushion was incorrectly folded. Nissan identified the affected vehicles and chose to conduct a voluntary recall campaign to replace the passenger-side knee air bag module.

The Solution

The dealer will replace the passenger-side knee air bag module, including the module trim cover, with a new one. INFINITI will notify owners, and retailers will complete the replacement free of charge. Rental car coverage will be available up to a max of $180. The recall is expected to begin October 22, 2018, and the Campaign ID is PC644.

Owners may contact INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200, or contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153). Owners may also use the INFINITI recall tool to enter their VIN and find out if their vehicle is affected by the recall.

Sean ReyesOver 1,600 2019 Infiniti vehicles recalled by Nissan for faulty air bag modules
Nissan and INFINITI Recall More Than 200,000 Sedans and SUVs Over Fire Hazard Concerns

Nissan and INFINITI Recall More Than 200,000 Sedans and SUVs Over Fire Hazard Concerns

September 20, 2018 Sean Reyes ,

Lilburn, Georgia – Sept. 20, 2018 – Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) and the company’s luxury brand, INFINITI, are recalling more than 200,000 sedans and SUVs. The recall is designed to allow the replacement of a faulty brake component that could cause a fire if brake fluid were to leak out onto a circuit board, according to Consumer Reports.

Affected vehicles include certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles, according to documentation provided by Nissan to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

The Defect

According to safety recall campaign bulletins from Nissan and INFINITI, the Antilock Braking System (ABS) actuator pump seal may leak brake fluid onto the control electronic circuit board, which can cause an electrical short and potentially start a fire.

If a leak occurs, the ABS warning lamp will illuminate to warn the driver. If the vehicle continues to be operated with the ongoing leak, the brake fluid may seep down onto the actuator circuit, creating an electrical short which could lead to a fire breaking out.

This is not the first issue with Nissan and/or INFINITI sedans and/or SUVs. In 2016, an almost identical issue with a faulty brake fluid seal allowing brake fluid to drip onto the ABS circuit board caused Nissan to recall 134,000 2016-2017 Maxima sedans, 2015-2017 Murano SUVs, and 2015-2016 Murano Hybrid SUVs across the U.S. and Canada.

Additionally, in 2017 nearly 57,000 Murano crossovers from the 2013 and 2014 model years were recalled by Nissan for faulty power steering fluid hose clamps, which allowed the lines to separate, causing difficulty in steering. The leaked fluid also posed a fire hazard, as if it leaked onto hot surfaces it could start a vehicle fire.

Timeline of Events

The report about this recall was officially issued on September 7, 2018.

When brake fluid has leaked onto the circuit board, the ABS warning lamp will remain illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up. If this occurs, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.

The manufacturer recommends parking the vehicle outside and contacting INFINITI or Nissan Roadside Assistance to have the vehicle towed to an authorized INFINITI or Nissan service department as soon as possible.

The Solution

Owners of potentially affected vehicles will be notified beginning in October 2018 and asked to bring their vehicle to an authorized INFINITI or Nissan retailer to have their ABS actuator checked and the remedial work completed if required (incurring no cost for the vehicle owner for either parts or labor.)

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the serial number on the ABS actuator, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Vehicles identified under the previous recall in 2016 are still covered under this recall as well. The recall is expected to begin October 15, 2018.

Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669, or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236. The NHTSA Campaign Number is 18V601000. Vehicle owners can also enter their VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Sean ReyesNissan and INFINITI Recall More Than 200,000 Sedans and SUVs Over Fire Hazard Concerns
Nissan recalls vehicles with defective seat belts

Nissan recalls vehicles with defective seat belts

June 29, 2018 Sean Reyes

Franklin, Tenn. – June 29, 2018 – Nissan North America has recalled a handful of vehicles potentially equipped with defective seat belt assemblies, according to documentation submitted to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2018 Infiniti QX30 crossover vehicles produced between Nov. 10, 2017, and Feb. 16, 2018. Nissan suspects all of the vehicles involved in the action contain the defective parts.

The Defect

Affected vehicles contain right-hand lower seat belt anchorage components with faulty bolts. The defective fasteners were likely cross-threaded during installation, a condition that may allow lower seat belt anchorage systems to detach in the event of an accident. This defect, therefore, poses a serious safety hazard to occupants, who may be left unrestrained during collisions. It also violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards Nos. 208, 209 and 210. FMVSS 208 requires vehicle manufacturers to install proper occupant crash protections, while FMVSS 209 and 210 mandate technically sound seat belt assembly construction.

Despite the danger the defective seat assemblies pose, Nissan has yet to receive field reports connecting these components to any accidents or injuries.

Timeline of Events

In early 2018, engineers conducting post-manufacture vehicle inspections at the Nissan assembly facility in Sunderland, England discovered an Infiniti vehicle with loose right-hand side lower seat belt anchorage bolts. A quick investigation revealed that bolt installation specialists had accidentally cross-threaded these fasteners, making the connected anchorage systems prone to detachment. Following this finding, Nissan engineering teams implement production countermeasures to prevent recurrence. The Japanese automaker also launched a wider inquiry to determine the scope of the issue and assess FMVSS compliance.

On May 29, 2018, Nissan leadership reviewed the results of this investigation and determined that the defective seat belt parts violated FMVSS Nos. 208, 209 and 210. This prompted the company to launch a voluntary safety recall.

Nissan notified dealers of the issue June 9, 2018.

The Solution

Nissan has directed dealers to install retaining plates in affected vehicles to secure the defective seat belt anchorage components, according to an NHTSA recall acknowledgement document. Dealers will perform these repairs free of charge. Nissan has yet to release a customer notification timetable. However, owners in need of assistance can speak with Nissan customer service personnel by calling (800) 662-6200. Owners can also contact the NHTSA directly using the agency’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

Sean ReyesNissan recalls vehicles with defective seat belts
Recall Lookup
Enter your vehicle(s) below to check the current recall status.

Recent Posts

Archives

Categories