Franklin, TN – September 3, 2023 – Nissan (OTCMKTS:NSANY) has recalled 236,238 2020-2022 Nissan Sentra sedans that may lose steering. The defect greatly increases the risk of a crash and injury for everyone involved.

This is the second recall for the same issue since 2021. Vehicles repaired under the previous recall might need a new remedy.

Drivers are encouraged to contact their dealership for “transport instructions” if they experience steering issues. 

Recall summary  

The steering mechanism on a car is connected to the front wheels with tie rods, which turn them left or right when the driver is turning the steering wheel. Affected vehicles were fitted with insufficiently strong rods, which could bend out of shape – or break – under high loads, such as when hitting a curb. This reduces the driver’s ability to control the vehicle and may lead to “a partial loss of steering.”

Recall risks

A vehicle that is difficult to control is more likely to be involved in an accident, upping the risk of an injury.  

Warning signs  

The driver may notice that “the steering wheel [is] off-center” or vibrates.

Safety tips

For tips on how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe if you drive one of the affected vehicles, please see this article about the previous recall.

Background of the recall

The first recall for this issue occurred in August 2021. Between January and August 2023, the manufacturer received four warranty claims and 91 field reports alleging “off-center steering” as a result of broken or bent rods.  Additionally, at least five accidents have occurred on the back of the defect.

While the current recall appears to be an extension of the previous one, the production dates for the vehicles involved also overlap. This means that some of the previously repaired vehicles might need a new remedy. 

Other Nissan recalls

Just last month, over 11,000 Kicks and Versa cars were recalled due to power steering issues, as reported.

The repair

The manufacturer is designing an upgraded version of the tie rod, which is expected to be made available in the winter. In the meantime, dealers will replace any broken or bent ones with the currently available version.

All repairs and spare parts will be free of charge. 

Owners should receive letters with more information on October 5, 2023. 

Is your vehicle a part of this recall?

Nearly a quarter million cars are affected by this Nissan steering recall. To do a Nissan recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.