Nissan and Infiniti recall 2011–2012 models over oil cooler bolt defect
Nissan and Infiniti have issued a recall for several 2011 and 2012 models in the US after identifying a risk of engine oil leaks caused by faulty oil cooler bolts.
Nissan and its luxury division Infiniti have issued a recall for several 2011 and 2012 models in the United States following the discovery of a defect in the engine oil cooler bolts. The recall was reported by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and concerns bolts that may not meet the required strength specification. If these bolts fail, they could cause engine oil leaks, potentially leading to a loss of oil pressure and increasing the risk of engine seizure and crash.
Overview of the Recall
The recall campaign is scheduled to begin on 19 January 2012. Nissan has already notified its dealer network, and repairs will be provided free of charge to affected owners. This action is part of Nissan’s ongoing commitment to vehicle safety and follows a series of recalls for mechanical issues in recent years.
Defect Details and Safety Risks
According to NHTSA documentation, some of the bolts connecting the engine oil cooler and oil filter to the engine may have been manufactured below the required strength. If one of these bolts breaks at the oil filter attachment point, it can cause an engine oil leak. A loss of engine oil may result in a drop in oil pressure, which could cause the engine to seize. This increases the risk of a crash, especially if the vehicle loses power while in motion. The risk is particularly concerning for drivers at speed or in heavy traffic, where sudden engine failure could lead to hazardous situations.
The NHTSA has highlighted that prompt attention to this defect is essential to prevent possible accidents. Nissan and Infiniti dealers will replace the affected bolts free of charge to address the issue and prevent engine oil leaks and potential engine damage. Owners are encouraged to monitor their vehicles for signs of oil leakage or dashboard warning lights indicating low oil pressure.
Models Included in the Recall
- 2012 Nissan Frontier
- 2012 Nissan NV
- 2011–2012 Nissan Pathfinder
- 2011–2012 Nissan Xterra
- 2011 Infiniti FX
- 2012 Infiniti M
These models were selected based on manufacturing records and reports of the defect. The issue affects both Nissan’s mainstream and luxury vehicles, indicating a shared component or supplier for the engine oil cooler bolts during the 2011 and 2012 production years.
Remedy and Cost to Owners
Owners of the affected vehicles will be contacted directly by Nissan and Infiniti. The remedy consists of replacing the suspect bolts with new parts that meet the proper strength specification. All work will be performed at authorised dealerships and will be carried out at no cost to the customer. This ensures that owners do not bear any financial burden due to the manufacturer’s defect.
The recall covers vehicles sold in the United States, and the process is expected to be straightforward. Most repairs involve a simple replacement of the bolts, which should not require extensive time at the dealership. Nissan has stated that dealers have already been informed and will have the necessary parts available once the recall officially begins.
Next Steps for Owners
Owners are advised to await official notification from Nissan or Infiniti regarding the recall. However, those who wish to obtain more information or who may be experiencing symptoms such as oil leaks or warning lights should contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. It is important for owners to arrange for inspection and repair as soon as possible if any issues are noticed, as driving with a potential oil leak could result in further engine damage or safety hazards.
Dealers will prioritise repairs for vehicles showing signs of the defect, but all affected owners will be accommodated. Owners should keep an eye out for official recall letters and follow the instructions provided to schedule their service appointment. Keeping records of any communication or repairs related to the recall is also recommended.
Context: Recent Nissan and Infiniti Recalls
This recall is one of several recent safety actions taken by Nissan and Infiniti. Similar recalls have been issued for related models and components, such as the Frontier, Pathfinder, and Xterra, which were previously recalled for a wheel hub defect. These actions demonstrate the importance of ongoing quality control and the willingness of manufacturers to address issues that may arise after vehicles have entered the market.
Owners can find more information about previous recalls by visiting the NHTSA website or contacting their local dealership. Regularly checking for recall notices is a good practice for all vehicle owners, as it ensures any potential safety issues are addressed promptly.
Summary
The recall affecting 2011–2012 Nissan and Infiniti models highlights the importance of addressing manufacturing defects quickly to maintain vehicle safety. With free repairs offered and clear communication from both the manufacturer and the NHTSA, owners are encouraged to respond promptly to recall notifications and ensure their vehicles are inspected and repaired as needed.
For further assistance, owners should contact Nissan customer service or their local dealership. Staying informed about recalls is essential for safe and reliable vehicle ownership.
