Laguna Hills, CA – Nov. 21, 2019 – A massive automotive recall is underway for Nissan North America, as more than 394,000 models – including Pathfinder, Infiniti, QX60, Murano and Maxima – contain flaws that put motorists’ safety at risk. The problem concerns brake fluid and what that liquid might touch in such an event. Specifically, if it drips onto certain circuitry, an electrical shortage may occur that increases the chances of an engine fire.
Nissan intends to inform registered users of the affected models starting in November. Recipients should take their car off the road if they think they may be impacted. An area dealer will fix the problem if one exists, free of charge.
The Defect
Nissan has announced the automotive recall of 394,025 vehicles, according to documentation released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Unlike other automotive recalls, which usually affect one specific model, this one affects several. They include:
- 2017-2019 Infiniti QX60
- 2016-2018 Maxima
- 2015-2018 Murano
- 2017-2019 Pathfinder
Even though these models are different and several were manufactured in different production periods, they each are equipped with ADVICS ABS actuators. The sealant, however, may be inadequate and run the risk of leaking brake fluid. In high temperature environments, the oil seal may subsequently soften and leach out fluid. This could reduce the braking capability of the ABS actuators and also runs the risk of igniting a fire within the engine compartment. Either of these worst-case scenarios are major safety hazard for drivers as well as anyone else who is in the vicinity of motorists driving a Nissan model with the apparent flaw.
Some of the models subject to this latest recall were originally part of a separate one that involved the same issue that have not been corrected. Others vehicles, however, were examined in the first brake fluid-related recall but were errantly determined not to require any repair work.
Timeline of Events
Usually when recalls are announced, NHTSA puts together a comprehensive Part 573 Safety Recall Report, which details how the problem came up and a brief chronology of what the automaker involved did to seek a solution. The agency says Nissan is expected to provide background regarding these details at a future date.
Nissan did, however, release an estimate as to how many of the 394,000+ recalled vehicles are Maximas, Muranos, Pathfinders and Infiniti QX60s. Pathfinder comprises the most at 126,579, followed by Murano (115,518), Maxima (82,374) and finally Infiniti QX60 (69,554).
Although the expansion of the original recall suggests more may be impacted than previously realized, Nissan suspects only 1% of the models recalled actually contain the defect.
Registered Nissan Infiniti QX60 operators have another recall out on their model, which was announced in September. That one affected 1.2 million Nissans overall that relate to rear camera display settings that are out of compliance with Federal Motor Safety Standard No. 111.
The Solution
As for the automotive recall involving the potential for leaking brake fluid, Nissan is informing motorists officially by first-class mail. If you’re an owner, expect to receive a notification some time after Dec. 2. Dealers have already been informed. Bring the vehicle to an area Nissan dealer so a repair can be scheduled.
For more information, visit MotorSafety.org.
