Nearly Half a Million Nissan and Infiniti Vehicles Recalled Over Engine Defect
By Hugo Mattson July 3, 2025
443,899 Nissan and Infiniti vehicles are being recalled because of a defective bearing that could lead to engine failure.
The problem occurs on certain 2023–2024 models, such as the Nissan Rogue, Altima, and Infiniti QX50/QX55.
Dealerships will check for engine damage and replace parts at no cost, with notices starting in mid-July
Recall Targets Engines at Risk of Failure
Nissan has ordered a voluntary recall of 443,899 vehicles in the United States because of a possible engine bearing flaw that can cause the engine to fail completely and raise the risk of an accident. The recall impacts a number of high-volume models from both the Nissan and Infiniti brands.
At the root of the issue are engine bearings that might have been contaminated with metal particles in the manufacturing process. Eventually, the contamination can lead to greater friction, which results in engine damage and, in extreme instances, total engine failure.
Based on the filings made to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the flaw has been traced to a supply-related problem related to incorrect cleaning during engine assembly. The defect affects engines installed in two- and three-cylinder models, namely Nissan's 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter VC-Turbo powertrains.
Models Covered in the Recall
The vehicles covered in the recall are:
2023–2024 Nissan Rogue (1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine)
2023–2024 Nissan Altima (2.0L VC-Turbo 4-cylinder engine)
Nissan conservatively estimates that around 1.2% of the recalled vehicles could actually have the defect. The company, however, has decided to include all vehicles that can be potentially affected by the part.
More detailed technical information and photos of the 2023 Nissan Rogue are available on DailyRevs.com.
Inspection Process and Free Repairs
Nissan dealerships will start inspecting vehicles from July 15, 2025, and will look for evidence of engine damage. Technicians will particularly check for metal debris in the oil pan, which is a major sign of bearing failure. In case contamination is present, the engine will be replaced free of cost to the customer.
In instances where debris is not found, the vehicle will be returned to operation without any mechanical adjustment. In any case, Nissan has pledged full inspection of all involved units and will inform owners by August 25, 2025.
No reported injuries or accidents have been associated with the defect as of the announcement date, according to Nissan. The recall is being conducted proactively to avoid subsequent events.
How the Recall Happened
The issue initially cropped up in internal testing, as Nissan engineers noticed more wear on engine bearings in a small number of vehicles. An investigation later found that a group of bearings had not been properly cleaned during manufacturing, so tiny particles of aluminum and other metals remained on the surface.
These particles, having entered circulation, will then create premature wear within the engine, particularly under heavy load conditions like freeway driving or uphill driving. If not addressed, the debris can lead to frozen bearings and a dead engine.
A Closer Look at the Engineering
The engines in question—specifically the 1.5L three-cylinder VC-Turbo in the Rogue and the 2.0L four-cylinder VC-Turbo in the Altima—are among Nissan's most technically sophisticated powertrains. With variable compression technology, they are optimized for efficiency without sacrificing performance.
Precise though such systems are, though, they're also more sensitive to contamination. Even tiny variations in materials or assembly can have disproportionate effects, as in this case.
The effect of this recall doesn't only extend to repairs but also comments on the sophistication involved in mass-producing high-efficiency engines.
What Owners Can Do Next
Nissan and Infiniti are asking owners to look for signs like odd engine sound, diminished performance, or the check engine light being lit. In case any of these signs are noticed, owners are asked to halt driving the car and contact their dealer immediately.
Both Infiniti and Nissan customer service centers have been notified and will answer questions pertaining to the recall. VIN lookup tools, specifically by VIN, can be found on the respective brand websites.
Broader Industry Context
Whereas big recalls are not unusual in the auto industry, the size of this one—almost half a million vehicles—makes it notable. As pressure mounts on automakers to be more efficient, tolerances have narrowed in contemporary engine design, and quality control has never been more critical.
The timing of this recall also coincides with Nissan's efforts to build consumer confidence and product consistency, particularly in its important markets such as the U.S.
Conclusion
Nissan's quick reaction to a potentially dangerous engine flaw shows both the sophistication and frailty of contemporary car engineering. The company's move to proactively examine and, if found faulted, replace engines at no cost to owners signifies a move towards risk abatement and responsibility.
As the recall unfolds over the weeks ahead, impacted owners should remain vigilant for notice and respond quickly.
For more details, owners may contact the DailyRevs post on the 2023 Infiniti QX55 or ensure whether their model is affected by the recall.