Thousands of Nissan, Infiniti Vehicles to Get Engine Replacement

Problems with Nissan's variable-compression turbocharged (VC-Turbo) engine are well known. Following an investigation by American regulators, we now learn that almost half a million vehicles are being recalled in the U.S.

More specifically, 443,899 units of the 2021-2024 Nissan Rogue, 2019-2020 Nissan Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50 and 2022 Infiniti QX55 are affected. Some have 2.0-litre engines, others 1.5-litre engines.

• Also: 2022 Nissan Rogue Turbo First Drive: Three Cylinders, 201 Horsepower
• Also: The 2019 Infiniti QX50 will Feature the New VC-Turbo Engine

The same models will be recalled in Canada (37,000+ units), except for the Altima which has never been offered here with the VC-Turbo engine.

According to documents provided by Nissan to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the engines in the affected vehicles may have incorrectly manufactured bearings that could result in engine damage or failure.

Dealers will inspect for metal debris in the oil pan. If none are found, the remedy will be limited to cleaning the oil pan and changing the oil in the 2.0-litre engine. A new sump gasket and reprogramming of the engine control module will also be required for the 1.5-litre engine.

Should there be metal debris, dealers will have to replace the engine altogether—at no cost to the owners, of course.