In one of the largest vehicle-related safety moves of the year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a sweeping recall of more than 443,800 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles due to a critical defect in the engine bearings—a small but vital component that, when compromised, can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
The recall includes several popular models from recent years:
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2021–2024 Nissan Rogue
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2019–2020 Nissan Altima
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2019–2022 Infiniti QX50
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2022 Infiniti QX55
All affected vehicles are equipped with either the 3-cylinder 1.5L VC-Turbo or 4-cylinder 2.0L VC-Turbo engine—Nissan’s flagship variable compression turbocharged powertrains. These engines, designed for better efficiency and performance, are now under scrutiny for potential manufacturing defects in the engine bearings that may cause complete engine failure.
The stakes are high. Engine failure not only disables a vehicle but can also pose a danger to occupants, especially if it occurs at high speeds. Recognizing this, the NHTSA has directed that dealers immediately begin inspections of the affected vehicles. The first line of defense? Checking the engine oil pan for metal fragments, a telltale sign of bearing degradation.
If fragments are found, the engine will be either repaired or replaced. If no fragments are detected, preventative steps will still be taken:
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For 3-cylinder 1.5L engines, technicians will replace the oil pan gasket and engine oil, and reprogram the engine control module (ECM).
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For 4-cylinder 2.0L engines, oil replacement will be performed.
Crucially, all recall-related services will be provided free of charge to vehicle owners.
Notification letters will begin reaching mailboxes after August 25, 2025, but concerned owners don’t have to wait. For direct assistance, Nissan owners can call 800-647-7261, while Infiniti owners can contact 800-662-6200.
