Fuel Pump Defect Triggers Large Recall

Japanese automaker Nissan announced a recall of approximately 173,000 vehicles across the United States after identifying a defect in the fuel pump that could cause engines to stall while driving. The issue, according to company filings with U.S. safety regulators, stems from faulty internal components that may prevent the fuel pump from supplying adequate fuel pressure to the engine.

Nissan said the malfunction could lead to unexpected stalling or failure to start, increasing the risk of accidents in certain driving conditions. The company emphasized that it is not aware of any crashes or injuries linked to the defect.

Models and Scope of the Recall

The recall covers specific models from the 2021 and 2022 production years, including the Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder, and Infiniti QX60 SUVs. Dealers have been instructed to inspect and replace the affected fuel pumps with improved units designed to eliminate the risk of failure.

Vehicle owners will be notified by mail beginning in late November, with repairs provided free of charge. Nissan also plans to work with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure that all affected vehicles are identified and corrected promptly.

Company Statement and Safety Emphasis

In a statement, Nissan reaffirmed its commitment to driver safety and product reliability. The automaker stated that it conducted an internal investigation after receiving reports of vehicles experiencing hesitation and stalling. Once the root cause was confirmed, the company initiated a voluntary recall to replace the defective components.

This recall adds to a series of quality control challenges the automotive industry has faced recently, as supply chain pressures and component shortages have complicated production and testing processes. Despite these challenges, Nissan noted that replacement parts are already in production and will be distributed to dealers ahead of the service campaign’s launch.

Broader Industry Context

Vehicle recalls have become increasingly common across global automakers as modern cars integrate more complex electronic and mechanical systems. Analysts note that while recalls can temporarily dent a brand’s reputation, transparent handling and swift corrective actions often help maintain consumer confidence.

For Nissan, the recall underscores the importance of continued vigilance in quality control as it ramps up production of next-generation models, including electric vehicles. The company aims to reinforce customer trust by addressing potential issues proactively and maintaining strong communication with regulators and consumers.