Nissan recalls 166K vehicles for ignition-switch defect
Nissan is recalling 153,047 vehicles in the US and Canada over concerns about defective ignition switches. The recall affects 2017 and 2018 model-year versions of the Juke, Frontier, Sentra, Versa, Versa Note,NV, NV200 and NV Taxi.
Nissan says components inside the ignition switch can wear, resulting in "reduced durability." Coupled with excessive vibrations, the key could inadvertently bump from the "on" position while driving.
A Nissan spokesman told CR that the recall is happening out of “an abundance of caution,” and that the automaker is “not aware of any incidents related to this condition.”
From NHTSA:
Vehicles recalled: Certain 2017 and 2018 Juke SUVs, Frontier pickup trucks, Sentra and Versa sedans, Versa Note hatchbacks, and NV200, NV1500, NV2500, and NV3500 vans sold in the U.S. The Nissan Taxi and Canada-only Nissan Micra are also included in the recall, as is the Chevrolet City Express van (which is made by Nissan). Vehicles with push-to-start keyless ignitions are not included.
The problem: Ignition systems that use a mechanical key “may experience reduced durability after several years of normal use,” the automaker said. “In extreme cases, under specific vibration conditions, the key could potentially move out of the ‘ON’ position while the vehicle is in motion.” '
NHTSA said that a vehicle's air bag system would "continue to be powered through built-in electrical capacity reserve" if the ignition shut off, but "this reserve will deplete unless the vehicle is restarted," which increases the risk of injury from a crash.
The fix: Dealers will “inspect and, if necessary, replace the mechanical key ignition switch assembly” at no cost to owners, Nissan said.
Nissan recall for ignition concerns includes the 2018 Nissan Frontier
How to contact the manufacturer: Nissan plans to notify owners of vehicles included in the recall by October 19, 2018.
NHTSA campaign number: 18V551
More information can be had here: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls