Nissan is recalling 15,233 Murano SUVs from the 2020 model year because a fault in the steering column could result in loss of vehicle control. This could substantially increase the risk of a crash.
According to Consumer Reports, the potentially defective parts are in the suspension. Right and left transverse links might not have been built properly. In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) documentation, Nissan said that, in rare cases, a ball joint could separate from the transverse link, causing loss of vehicle control.
Nissan is not aware of any accidents, injuries or warranty claims involving this defect. The problem was flagged by a parts supplier. No other Nissan or Infiniti vehicles have these particular components.
The company will begin notifying owners of the recall by mail in late April. In the meantime, you can check if your vehicle is included in the recall by locating your 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and entering it into NHTSA’s online recall search. Or, you can contact Nissan customer service at 800-867-7669.
The VIN is often printed on your car title or insurance documents, and it is also located on the car itself. Check the inside of the driver’s side door frame with the door open. You may also find it at the base of the steering wheel when viewed from outside the windshield.
Vehicles affected by this recall
- 2020 Nissan Murano SUVs manufactured between July 28, 2020 and Sept. 16, 2020
Dealerships will offer free recall services. This will involve inspecting the vehicle to see if parts from the suspected group have been installed. If they have, technicians will replace the transverse links and perform an alignment.
NHTSA’s campaign number is 21V-170 and Nissan’s recall number is PC797.
Nissan and NHTSA have not directed owners to stop driving these vehicles until they are inspected and/or fixed. However, you may wish to make other plans due to the serious nature of the problem.
If you or someone your love has been injured by a vehicle fault or defect, contact an attorney who handles product liability cases.
