The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a preliminary evaluation into more than 77,000 Nissan vehicles over reports of an issue with the steering tie rod.
The investigation, announced on Wednesday, will focus on 77,131 Nissan Rogue crossover models from the 2021 model year. The regulator stated that the probe was initiated after receiving reports of inner tie rod failures, which could potentially result in a loss of steering control.
According to NHTSA, the evaluation will aim to assess the safety-related consequences of the alleged defect, as well as determine the scope, frequency, and root cause of the issue. This investigation comes on the heels of a separate probe opened by the regulator in June, which involved around 75,000 Nissan 2015 Rogue Select models due to reports of unintended side airbag deployments.
The potential steering problem in the 2021 Nissan Rogue crossovers is a concerning development for the automaker and its customers. The ability to maintain proper steering control is a crucial safety feature in any vehicle, and NHTSA is taking proactive steps to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Nissan, a Japanese multinational automaker, has faced its fair share of quality and safety-related challenges in recent years. The company’s reputation has been tested by a series of high-profile recalls and investigations, underscoring the importance of swift and transparent action to address any potential safety issues.