On September 20, Nissan North America issued a recall for over 215,000 models over concerns that the anti-lock brake may leak fluid onto an internal circuit board, increasing the risk of a fire. The recalled models range from 2015 to 2018.
The recall covers the:
- 2015-2017 Nissan Murano
- 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima
- 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder
- 2017 Infiniti QX60
In some cases, Nissan is advising drivers to park their vehicles outside.
Documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stated that the ABS actuator pump seal could leak brake fluid onto the internal electronic circuit board, which could cause a malfunction. If this happens, the ABS warning light will illuminate on the dashboard panel to warn the driver about the malfunction. However, if the driver ignores this warning and continues to operate the vehicle in this condition, the leak could actually create an electrical short in the actuator circuit. And, in rare instances, this can start a fire.
Nissan goes on to advise that if the ABS light stays on for more than 10 seconds, to park the vehicle outside, away from any structures or other vehicles, and not to drive it until the issue is fixed. Vehicle owners should contact Nissan Roadside Assistance to have their vehicle towed to a Nissan service department.
It's estimated that about 56 percent of affected vehicles have the leak, which Nissan has traced to a faulty seal in the pump. However, they have not reported any fires related to the recall.
Any affected vehicle owners will begin receiving notifications from Nissan beginning October 15, 2018. Then, car dealers will inspect and replace the pumps as needed, free of charge.
If you want to check your own vehicle for recalls, the NHTSA maintains a website where you can search active recalls via VIN here. Or, if you want to sign up for safety alerts for your car, you can sign up on the NHTSA site here.
Your quick recall details
- Vehicles recalled: 2015 to 2017 Nissan Murano, 2016 to 2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017 to 2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60.
- The issue: A seal in the ABS actuator pump could allow brake fluid to leak onto a computer circuit, causing a potential electrical short and fire.
- Check if your vehicle is recalled: Plug in the 17-digit VIN at the NHTSA. It will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls.
- What to do: Your dealership will inspect the part and replace it, if necessary, at no cost.
- Who to call: Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 800-867-7669.
The car accident attorneys at Crandall & Pera Law are experienced injury attorneys who are ready to help when you're hurt. If you sustained injuries due to faulty products or the negligence of another, we can help. Please call 877-686-8879, or fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation.