A U.S. auto safety regulator has initiated an investigation into concerns surrounding engine failures in approximately 454,840 Nissan vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on Friday that the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) will conduct a preliminary evaluation into specific models, including the Nissan Rogue, Altima, and Infiniti Qx50, following the receipt of six complaints related to engine issues.
Complaints lodged by vehicle owners highlight instances of engine failure resulting in a loss of motive power, rendering the affected vehicles incapable of restarting. The ODI has noted various problems reported by owners, such as engine knocking noises, a loss of power, and the discovery of metal chunks and shavings in the oil pan. These issues specifically pertain to vehicles equipped with the KR15DDT and KR20DDET engines.
In response to the reported problems, the Japanese automaker, Nissan, has taken steps to address main bearing and L-link damage or seizures within the engines. The company has implemented multiple manufacturing process changes over time in an effort to rectify these issues, according to the regulatory agency.
The ODI emphasized that this investigation is in its preliminary stages but has not ruled out the possibility of expansion based on future findings. As the agency delves into the reported concerns, it aims to determine the root causes of the engine failures and assess the adequacy of Nissan’s measures to rectify the problems.
This development underscores the importance of regulatory bodies in monitoring and addressing potential safety issues in the automotive industry to ensure the well-being of vehicle owners and the public at large.
