Nissan recalls engine failure has become a headline dominating automotive news as the company initiates one of its largest safety recalls in recent years. In early July 2025, Nissan announced it is recalling over 480,000 vehicles across the United States and Canada due to a critical engine defect that could lead to sudden engine failure or, in rare cases, fire. This recall affects some of Nissan’s most popular models, including the Rogue and Altima, as well as luxury Infiniti vehicles, and has left many drivers seeking urgent answers ahead of the busy summer travel season.
Latest Developments: Nissan Recalls Engine Failure
On July 2, 2025, Nissan officially disclosed a recall impacting 443,899 vehicles in the U.S. and nearly 37,837 in Canada. The issue centers on a manufacturing defect in the engine’s bearing component, which can cause excessive wear, engine damage, or even total engine failure while driving. The affected engines are the VC-Turbo 1.5L three-cylinder and 2.0L four-cylinder variable compression turbo engines, found in select Nissan and Infiniti models.
Key Point Summary
- Recall announced: July 2, 2025
- Total vehicles affected: Over 480,000 (U.S. & Canada)
- Main risk: Engine failure, potential for fire, increased crash risk
- Models involved: 2021–2024 Nissan Rogue, 2019–2020 Nissan Altima, 2019–2022 Infiniti QX50, 2022 Infiniti QX55
- Remedy: Inspection, repair, or engine replacement at no cost to owners
- Owner notification: Begins August 22, 2025
Which Vehicles Are Included in the Nissan Recalls Engine Failure?
The recall specifically targets the following models:
| Make | Model | Years | Engine Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan | Rogue | 2021–2024 | 1.5L 3-cyl / 2.0L 4-cyl VC-Turbo |
| Nissan | Altima | 2019–2020 | 2.0L 4-cyl VC-Turbo |
| Infiniti | QX50 | 2019–2022 | 2.0L 4-cyl VC-Turbo |
| Infiniti | QX55 | 2022 | 2.0L 4-cyl VC-Turbo |
Nissan estimates that about 1.2% of the recalled vehicles actually have the defective engine bearing, but the risk is significant enough to warrant a comprehensive recall.
Why Is Nissan Recalling These Vehicles for Engine Failure?
The core problem is a manufacturing defect in the crankshaft rod bearings. These bearings can wear out prematurely or break apart, leading to engine noise, warning lights, rough running, or, in severe cases, complete engine failure. In rare instances, the defect has caused engine fires. Nissan has received over 1,000 warranty claims related to this issue, and at least four vehicles have caught fire, although no injuries have been reported to date.
Warning Signs for Drivers
If you own one of the affected models, watch for:
- Unusual engine noises
- Dashboard warning lights
- Rough engine performance
- Any signs of smoke or burning smell
If you notice any of these symptoms, Nissan advises stopping driving and contacting your dealer immediately.
What Should Owners Do Next?
Nissan and Infiniti will begin notifying owners by mail starting August 22, 2025. The notification will instruct owners to bring their vehicles to authorized dealerships for a free inspection. The service process will include:
- Inspection of the engine oil pan for metal debris
- If debris is found: The engine will be repaired or replaced at no cost
- If no debris is found: For 1.5L engines, the oil pan gasket, engine oil, and engine control module will be updated; for 2.0L engines, only the engine oil will be replaced
All repairs, inspections, and potential engine replacements will be provided free of charge. Nissan has assured customers that this recall is part of its ongoing commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.
How to Check If Your Vehicle Is Affected by the Nissan Recalls Engine Failure
Owners can quickly check if their vehicle is included in the recall by:
- Visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Using Nissan’s or Infiniti’s official recall lookup tools online
- Calling Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261 or Infiniti at 1-800-662-6200
Industry and Consumer Response
The timing of the Nissan recalls engine failure announcement, just before the July 4th weekend, has frustrated many drivers who had travel plans. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube are filled with posts from owners sharing their experiences, concerns, and tips on what to do next. Automotive experts have praised Nissan for acting quickly, but they also note that the scale of the recall and the possibility of engine replacement highlight the seriousness of the defect.
What This Means for Nissan and Infiniti Owners
If your vehicle is on the recall list, do not ignore the notification. Engine failure can happen suddenly and may result in a loss of power or control, especially at high speeds. Until your car is inspected and, if needed, repaired, consider limiting long-distance travel and stay alert for any warning signs.
Conclusion
The Nissan recalls engine failure situation is evolving, but the company is working to ensure customer safety and minimize inconvenience. Stay informed by checking your VIN, watch for your recall notice, and schedule your inspection as soon as possible. Safety comes first—don’t delay addressing this critical recall.
Take action now: Check your vehicle’s recall status, schedule your inspection, and share this information with other Nissan and Infiniti owners to keep everyone safe on the road.