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2002 Nissan Pathfinder

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Similar to other model years

Owner complaints for the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 97.

About this comparison →

How this year compares

Owner complaints by model year

Compare all Pathfinder years →

Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.

What owners reported most

All reported categories

Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

108 reports with mileage · 48 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Suspension. Review the 43 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine And Engine Cooling. Review the 35 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Structure. Review the 18 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

15 crash reports1 fire reports6 injury reports

What owners actually said

156 reports
Mileage unknown · Mar 16, 2024
SteeringStructureSuspension

This relates to Campaign Number 11V244000 We are the original and only owners of the vehicle I originally brought the vehicle in for the recall and they simply sprayed some undercoating in the wheel wells. Less than a month later both strut towers separated from the body of the vehicle while my wife was driving home, she lost st…

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This relates to Campaign Number 11V244000 We are the original and only owners of the vehicle I originally brought the vehicle in for the recall and they simply sprayed some undercoating in the wheel wells. Less than a month later both strut towers separated from the body of the vehicle while my wife was driving home, she lost steering and could have had a serious or fatal accident. I towed to the dealer and they installed braces in both strut towers. I have always taken exceptional care of my vehicles, which includes multiple washes during winter months and extensive undercarriage washing every spring. This past Oct when I took the vehicle in for mandatory state inspection I was informed that the vehicle would not pass inspection next year. They told me this once before in relation to extensive rust to the passenger side rear frame next to the muffler. I was able to cut out the rust and weld a thicker plate of steel in there to repair the frame. I just changed my oil and looked for what the mechanic was referring too. This time the rust is between the braces they installed for the struts and the front of the wheel well. The mechanic saw the rust coming through the paint and poked at it with a screw driver, the screw driver went right though the body leaving significant holes in the structure that supports the struts. When the weather breaks I will further inspect to determine if there is enough good metal left for me to attempt a repair. I am doubtful a repair will be possible as the metal used to construct this vehicle is very poor quality. Despite my constant care, washing, rust conversion treatments, painting with rust blocking paint and using undercoating, every inch on the underside of the vehicle is rusted. Both rear quarters rotted behind the wheel flares and down into where the rear doors close and contact the rear quarters. Now due to Nissan's decision to use substandard metal I am forced to buy a new vehicle which is currently financially impossible

NHTSA ODI #11577805

Mileage unknown · Mar 16, 2024
Fuel/propulsion System

My complaint relates to Campaign Number 07V435000 We are the original and only owner of this vehicle. While driving the vehicle I started to notice a fuel smell, after several attempts to locate the source, one day I added fuel, I noticed a small puddle in my driveway the following morning. I removed the wheel and the fender wel…

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My complaint relates to Campaign Number 07V435000 We are the original and only owner of this vehicle. While driving the vehicle I started to notice a fuel smell, after several attempts to locate the source, one day I added fuel, I noticed a small puddle in my driveway the following morning. I removed the wheel and the fender well cover to find the fuel filler neck had rotted through and fuel had wet both the tire and the brakes. The above campaign number has a recall the ends in the prior manufacturing year even though the part in question was used by the manufacturer through the 2004 model year. I repaired the vehicle and am now dealing with a constant check engine light due to a manufacturing defect that creates a large vacuum leak at the fuel cap. The part arrived with a notice that the leak is common and recommends replacement of the fuel cap. I replaced the cap and am having the same problem. I have retained the defective part should you wish to inspect it. I think the recall should be expanded to the entirety of the use of the defective part by the manufacturer, model year 2004. It would also be nice if the replacement part manufacturer was fined for selling a product they know to have defective manufacturing. Leak discovered 20 August 2023 at 153,789 miles Replacement part# FN748 from Spectra Premium ordered through Amazon

NHTSA ODI #11577797

147,477 miles · May 2, 2023
SteeringSuspension

The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously serviced at a local dealer under NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V244000 (Steering, Suspension); however, the mechanic diagnosed that there was no rust in the strut housing assembly. The contact then stated that when he replaced the front stru…

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The contact owns a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously serviced at a local dealer under NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V244000 (Steering, Suspension); however, the mechanic diagnosed that there was no rust in the strut housing assembly. The contact then stated that when he replaced the front struts, excessive rust was seen in the strut housing assembly. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to multiple independent mechanics, who diagnosed that the front axle needed to be replaced and confirmed there was excessive rust in the strut housing. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 147,477.

NHTSA ODI #11520142

Mileage unknown · Aug 9, 2022
Air Bags

The contact's son owned a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder. The contact stated that she received notification of NHTSA recall campaigns and flyers and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list. The contact stated that the vehicle was sold. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA ODI #11478436

118,000 miles · Mar 5, 2020
Unknown Or Other

I WROTE A LETTER AND FILED A COMPLAINT ABOUT A PERFORATED RUST FRAME ON MY 2002 NISSAN PATHFINDER WITH 118,000 MILES. I HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE FRONT END BROUGHT TO WHERE I PURCHASED 18 YEARS AGO TO HAVE A RECALLED PERFORMED ON THE AIR BAG FOR SAFETY BUT MY RUSTED FRAME IS NOT RECALLED. THE SMITHTOWN DEALERSHIP OWNED BY JOSEPH O …

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I WROTE A LETTER AND FILED A COMPLAINT ABOUT A PERFORATED RUST FRAME ON MY 2002 NISSAN PATHFINDER WITH 118,000 MILES. I HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE FRONT END BROUGHT TO WHERE I PURCHASED 18 YEARS AGO TO HAVE A RECALLED PERFORMED ON THE AIR BAG FOR SAFETY BUT MY RUSTED FRAME IS NOT RECALLED. THE SMITHTOWN DEALERSHIP OWNED BY JOSEPH O RUBIO THAT I PURCHASED AND JUST BROUGHT MY TO CAR TO GET IT SERVICED. THE SERVICE TECH ANDREW LISSKE TOLD ME NOT TO DRIVE MY NISSAN PATHFINDER FOR SAFETY REASONS BECAUSE THE FRAME IS ROTTED BUT CHNAGED MY AIR BAG FOR A RECALL THEN HE SAID MY VEHICLE IT IS OLD AND THEY DON'T MAKE CARS LIKE THEY USED TO . ATTACHESIS THE SERVICE TICKET. I WAS DRIVING AND THE FRONT PASSENGER END WAS HOPING WHILE GOING OVER 40 MILES AN HOUR. I WROTE AND SPOKE TO SOMEONE NOT I HAVE DOCUMATATION.

NHTSA ODI #11316447

118,000 miles · Mar 3, 2020
Suspension

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE VIBRATED ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED HE PARKED THE VEHICLE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD FOR APPROXIMATELY…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 NISSAN PATHFINDER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE VIBRATED ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED HE PARKED THE VEHICLE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES, RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND DROVE TO THE RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE WELDED PRIOR TO REPLACING THE LOWER CONTROL ARM ON THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED OR NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,000.

NHTSA ODI #11315925

118,000 miles · Dec 27, 2019
Structure

I BROUGHT IT TO MY MECHANIC WE LOOKED AT THE FRAME UNDER THE CARS FRONT END IT IS CLUCKING THERE IS EXCESSIVE RUST, PERFORATED STEEL AND DISCONNECTED FROM OTHER PARTS VERY DANGEROUS. I BOUGHT THIS CAR NEW FROM SMITHTOWN NISSIAN IN 2002 I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER. I CALLED SMITHTOWN NISSAN THEY SAID THEY HAVE RECALLS FOR THIS BUT MY…

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I BROUGHT IT TO MY MECHANIC WE LOOKED AT THE FRAME UNDER THE CARS FRONT END IT IS CLUCKING THERE IS EXCESSIVE RUST, PERFORATED STEEL AND DISCONNECTED FROM OTHER PARTS VERY DANGEROUS. I BOUGHT THIS CAR NEW FROM SMITHTOWN NISSIAN IN 2002 I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER. I CALLED SMITHTOWN NISSAN THEY SAID THEY HAVE RECALLS FOR THIS BUT MY VIN# CAR IS NOT AFFECTED I READ THE RECALL NOTICE R1107 IT STATES IM HIGH SALT AREAS AND NEW YORK IS ONE OF THEM FOR THIS TYPE OF PROBLEM . THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE LIABLE.

NHTSA ODI #11291453

165,000 miles · Sep 19, 2019
Suspension

I WAS DRIVING MY 2002 PATHFINDER TO WORK ON MONDAY OF THIS WEEK WHEN I STARTED TO FEEL A SLIGHT SHAKING IN MY STEERING WHEEL AND CHATTER IN MY BRAKE PEDAL WHILE DRIVING AT 55MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. AFTER I GOT OFF THE HIGHWAY I COULD BARELY MAKE A RIGHT TURN AS THE STEERING WHEEL WAS VERY STIFF. I CHECKED MY FRONT END AND WHAT I FOU…

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I WAS DRIVING MY 2002 PATHFINDER TO WORK ON MONDAY OF THIS WEEK WHEN I STARTED TO FEEL A SLIGHT SHAKING IN MY STEERING WHEEL AND CHATTER IN MY BRAKE PEDAL WHILE DRIVING AT 55MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. AFTER I GOT OFF THE HIGHWAY I COULD BARELY MAKE A RIGHT TURN AS THE STEERING WHEEL WAS VERY STIFF. I CHECKED MY FRONT END AND WHAT I FOUND WAS FRIGHTENING. THE DRIVERS SIDE STRUT TOWER HAD TORN FROM THE FRAME AND BODY AND WAS NOW PUSHING AGAINST BOTH THE STEERING SHAFT AND MASTER CYLINDER WHICH WAS BENT UP AT AN ANGLE. MY MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER IS NOW SUPPORTING THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL! THANK GOD THE STRUT DID NOT SNAP THE STEERING SHAFT OR MASTER CYLINDER WHILE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. I MIGHT BE IN A HOSPITAL BED OR DEAD. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A NISSAN DEALERSHIP WHO TOLD ME THAT IT RECEIVED A LEVEL 1 REPAIR BY THE PREVIOUS OWNER (I AM THE SECOND OWNER) IN 2011 AND NOTHING COULD BE DONE EXCEPT TO CALL CORPORATE. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT THE RECALL HAS TWO LEVELS: 1 AND 2. LEVEL 1 IS A SIMPLE INSPECTION, CLEANING AND COATING. LEVEL 2 REQUIRES A BOLTED IN METAL BRACE BE INSTALLED TO REINFORCE THE STRUT TOWER. NISSAN CORPORATE TOLD ME THE LEVEL 1 REPAIR WAS ALREADY COMPLETED AND NOTHING FURTHER COULD BE DONE EVEN THOUGH THE REPAIR DID NOTHING TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM AND NOW I AM IN NEED OF A LEVEL 2 REPAIR. I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT NISSAN CAN WALK AWAY FROM THIS AFTER THEIR LEVEL 1 FIX FAILS TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM. THE LEVEL 1 REPAIR IS A TICKING TIME BOMB AS THE SO CALLED "FIX" DOES NOTHING TO STOP THE TOWER FROM FAILING. I HONESTLY FEEL THAT NISSAN HAS NOT DONE ENOUGH TO REMEDY THE ISSUE AND THERE COULD STILL BE HUNDREDS OR THOUSANDS OF PATHFINDERS WITH BOGUS LEVEL 1 REPAIRS ON OUR ROADS RIGHT THIS MINUTE. NISSAN SHOULD PROVIDE THE LEVEL 2 RECALL EVEN IF LEVEL 1 HAS ALREADY BEEN COMPLETED.

NHTSA ODI #11256630

223,000 miles · Jun 29, 2019
Vehicle Speed Control

I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY WHEN I REALIZED MY CAR WAS ACCELERATING QUICKLY WITHOUT MY FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL. I PUT MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO SLOW IT DOWN TO 65. AT THE SAME TIME I MOVED THE RUG BACK IN CASE IT WAS CAUGHT, BUT THAT WAS NOT THE PROBLEM AND I ALSO TAPPED THE GAS PEDAL TO SEE IF IT WAS STUCK AND IT WAS NOT. I CONTINUE…

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I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY WHEN I REALIZED MY CAR WAS ACCELERATING QUICKLY WITHOUT MY FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL. I PUT MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE TO SLOW IT DOWN TO 65. AT THE SAME TIME I MOVED THE RUG BACK IN CASE IT WAS CAUGHT, BUT THAT WAS NOT THE PROBLEM AND I ALSO TAPPED THE GAS PEDAL TO SEE IF IT WAS STUCK AND IT WAS NOT. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE FOR 15 MILES WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE THE ENTIRE TIME UNTIL I EXITED THE HIGHWAY AND WAS ABLE TO ENTER A PARKING LOT WHERE I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD. THE CAR WAS SHAKING AND THE ENGINE WAS REVVING AND THE CAR WAS TRYING TO PUSH FORWARD. I WAS AFRAID PUTTING IT IN NEUTRAL WOULD NOT WORK SO I THREW IT IN TO PARK AND THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV AS THE CAR JERKED TO A STOP. I PUT ON THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND TURNED IT OFF. AS I EXITED THE CAR, I COULD SMELL BURNING AND MOVED AWAY FROM THE CAR. I WAS SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY AND BROKE DOWN AFTER THAT. I CALLED THE NISSAN DEALER THAT SERVICES MY CAR TO SAY WHAT HAPPENED AND IT WOULD BE TOWED THERE. I CALLED MY INSURANCE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE TO TOW THE CAR. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER TURNED THE CAR ON TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND IT IMMEDIATELY BEGAN REVVING UP AGAIN SO HE TURNED IT OFF AND POPPED THE HOOD AND SHOWED ME WHERE THE THROTTLE WAS AND THE WIRES GOING TO IT AND HE FIDDLED WITH THOSE AND STARTED THE CAR AGAIN AND HE PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND TOWED IT TO THE DEALERSHIP.

NHTSA ODI #11228444

150,000 miles · Jan 30, 2019
Structure

NISSAN REPAIRED STRUT HOUSING UNDER RECALL. THEIR " BAND-AID " OF A REPAIR IS FAILING. CONTACTED NISSAN AND WAS TOLD THEY DID WHAT WAS REQUIRED. HOUSING REPAIR IS COMING APART AND BRAKE LINE PULLING AWAY. WAS TOLD BUY A NEW VEHICLE. WHY SHOULD I WHEN MINE RUNS PERFECTLY FINE. BUT NOW ITS UNSAFE. SO UNHAPPY WITH THEIR RESP…

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NISSAN REPAIRED STRUT HOUSING UNDER RECALL. THEIR " BAND-AID " OF A REPAIR IS FAILING. CONTACTED NISSAN AND WAS TOLD THEY DID WHAT WAS REQUIRED. HOUSING REPAIR IS COMING APART AND BRAKE LINE PULLING AWAY. WAS TOLD BUY A NEW VEHICLE. WHY SHOULD I WHEN MINE RUNS PERFECTLY FINE. BUT NOW ITS UNSAFE. SO UNHAPPY WITH THEIR RESPONSE.

NHTSA ODI #11173083

Official recalls

5

20V008000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

Jan 9, 2020

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti QX4, 2003-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated, frontal passenger air bag inflators containing phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant that were used as interim remedy parts for previous Takata recalls. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflators with alternate desiccated inflators, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 888-737-9511 or Infiniti customer service at 888-810-3715.

17V068000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

Feb 2, 2017

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2002 Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with Takata air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall began on March, 31, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.

15V287000 · Air Bags

May 15, 2015

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2001-2003 Nissan Maxima, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4 and I35, 2003 FX35 and FX45, and 2001 I30 vehicles. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on June 15, 2015. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261. Note: On December 18, 2015 Nissan informed NHTSA of an amendment of this recall to remove 2004-2005 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 vehicles.

11V244000 · Steering:column; Suspension:front

Apr 20, 2011

NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1996-2004 PATHFINDER AND MODEL YEAR 1997-2003 INFINITI QX4 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. IN AREAS OF THE COUNTRY IN WHICH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAY ENTER AN ASSEMBLY LOCATION HOLE IN THE UPPER STRUT HOUSING, CAUSING WATER TO COLLECT AT THE MATING SURFACE OF THE STRUT HOUSING PANEL AND THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. OVER TIME, THIS SNOW/WATER AND SALT INTRUSION MAY RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE STRUT TOWER HOUSING IN SOME SUBJECT VEHICLES.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THE STRUT HOUSING MAY CRACK AND PULL AWAY FROM THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. THIS MAY LEAD TO GRINDING NOISES, INCREASED STEERING EFFORT, AND POSSIBLY THE STEERING COLUMN TO BREAK, RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy: NISSAN WILL INSPECT THE STRUT HOUSING AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM NOTIFICATION LETTER WAS SENT OUT IN MAY 2011. THE SECOND NOTICE WAS MAILED ON JULY 25, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Suspension:front

NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1996-2004 PATHFINDER AND MODEL YEAR 1997-2003 INFINITI QX4 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. IN AREAS OF THE COUNTRY IN WHICH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAY ENTER AN ASSEMBLY LOCATION HOLE IN THE UPPER STRUT HOUSING, CAUSING WATER TO COLLECT AT THE MATING SURFACE OF THE STRUT HOUSING PANEL AND THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. OVER TIME, THIS SNOW/WATER AND SALT INTRUSION MAY RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE STRUT TOWER HOUSING IN SOME SUBJECT VEHICLES.

Consequence: THE STRUT HOUSING MAY CRACK AND PULL AWAY FROM THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. THIS MAY LEAD TO GRINDING NOISES, INCREASED STEERING EFFORT, AND POSSIBLY THE STEERING COLUMN TO BREAK, RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy: NISSAN WILL INSPECT THE STRUT HOUSING AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM NOTIFICATION LETTER WAS SENT OUT IN MAY 2011. THE SECOND NOTICE WAS MAILED ON JULY 25, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

Steering:column

NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1996-2004 PATHFINDER AND MODEL YEAR 1997-2003 INFINITI QX4 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. IN AREAS OF THE COUNTRY IN WHICH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, A MIXTURE OF SNOW/WATER AND SALT MAY ENTER AN ASSEMBLY LOCATION HOLE IN THE UPPER STRUT HOUSING, CAUSING WATER TO COLLECT AT THE MATING SURFACE OF THE STRUT HOUSING PANEL AND THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. OVER TIME, THIS SNOW/WATER AND SALT INTRUSION MAY RESULT IN CORROSION OF THE STRUT TOWER HOUSING IN SOME SUBJECT VEHICLES.

Consequence: THE STRUT HOUSING MAY CRACK AND PULL AWAY FROM THE INNER HOOD LEDGE ASSEMBLY. THIS MAY LEAD TO GRINDING NOISES, INCREASED STEERING EFFORT, AND POSSIBLY THE STEERING COLUMN TO BREAK, RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy: NISSAN WILL INSPECT THE STRUT HOUSING AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. AN INTERIM NOTIFICATION LETTER WAS SENT OUT IN MAY 2011. THE SECOND NOTICE WAS MAILED ON JULY 25, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

10V312000 · Air Bags:frontal

Jul 6, 2010

NISSAN IS RECALLING FORTY-SIX CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 PATHFINDER AND INFINITI QX4 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 24, 2001 THROUGH AUGUST 28, 2001. THE AIR BAG INFLATOR CONTAINS PROPELLANT WAFERS THAT ARE REQUIRED TO PROPERLY DEPLOY THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG. DUE TO IMPROPER PROPELLANT WAFER INSTALLATION DURING THE AIR BAG INFLATOR ASSEMBLY PROCESS, SOME AIR BAG INFLATORS MAY BE MISSING ONE OF THE WAFERS. AS A RESULT, THE REMAINING WAFERS IN THE INFLATOR USED FOR THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG MAY, OVER TIME, BREAK UP INTO POWDER DUE TO NORMAL VIBRATION EXPERIENCED WHILE DRIVING. THIS CAUSES THE COMBUSTION RATE OF THE PROPELLANT TO INCREASE INSIDE THE INFLATOR, WHICH CAN LEAD TO INTERNAL PRESSURE RISING SUDDENLY DURING AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THE INFLATOR HOUSING MAY RUPTURE AND PIECES OF THE INFLATOR COULD STRIKE AND INJURE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.

Remedy: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY THE OWNERS OF THE FORTY-SIX AFFECTED VEHICLES. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ONE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 19, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 AND INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

2

EA21002 · Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

Opened Sep 17, 2021 · No close date supplied

Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

PE11004 · Frame/body Structure Corrosion

Opened Jan 28, 2011 · Closed Jun 30, 2011

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Steering:column; Suspension; Suspension:front; Suspension:front:macpherson Strut; Suspension:front:shock Absorber

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.

Additional source detail variants (6)

Steering:column

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.

Steering

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.

Suspension:front:macpherson Strut

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.

Suspension:front

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.

Suspension:front:shock Absorber

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.

Suspension

In their Defect Information Report (DIR) of April 20, 2011, Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) notified NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall of certain 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinder and 1997-2003 Infinity QX4 vehicles to repair corrosion damage to the driver's side front strut tower.The vehicles included in the recall are those that were originally sold, or are currently registered in salt belt states including Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.The DIR states in part, ...the strut housing may crack and pull away from the inner hood ledge assembly.This could lead to the strut housing panel separating and contacting the steering column lower shaft.Contact with the steering column lower shaft can cause steering difficulties and may require an increase in steering effort by the driver.If the steering column lower shaft completely fractured it would result in a total loss of steering control.In some cases, the strut housing panel can contact or affect adjacent brake system components.Complainants reported experiencing either steering or brake system issues, and in some cases, both.Nissan dealer's will inspect the strut housing and, based on the level of corrosion found, make an assessment as to how to remedy the vehicle (see defect information report for additional details). Brake system components adjacent to, and in the area of, the strut tower (i.e., brake master cylinder, left front brake line, ABS wire harness, etc.) will also be inspected.