In yet another automotive recall, Nissan Motor Company has announced that it is recalling Altima sens due to the improper installation of bolts. The bolts, which are not themselves defective, were installed incorrectly: they were not properly tightened. Thus, the bolts can fall off, leading to a crash.
The recall extends to nearly 14,000 vehicles. All are from the Altima’s 2012 and 2013 model years. The sedans subject to the recall were manufactured in Canton, Mississippi during a period spanning from May 10 to July 26. It is unclear why the bolts were not installed properly during this period.
The defectively-installed bolts were four transverse link bolts and two rack bolts in the power steering system. Nissan describes the problem as the bolts not having been “torqued to the proper specification.” Put in simple English by our products liability attorneys, someone neglected to tighten them all the way.
This means that the bolts can come loose or fall off entirely while the car is in operation. This can cause everything from a simple rattling noise to a steering failure and a dangerous or deadly collision.
Nissan has not reported any accidents or injuries as a result of the defective installation of the bolts. Drivers who experienced steering failure or an unexplained accident in an Altima may not have realized, however, that their injuries and damage were the result of the defective installation.
Altima owners who experienced crashes in sedans subject to the recall should consult with an experienced product liability attorney. Your attorney can help you to determine whether the defectively-installed bolts were the cause of your accident. If so, Nissan may be liable to you for their negligent failure to install the bolts correctly.
Altima owners who have not yet experienced a crash should take their car in to an official Nissan dealership, where the bolts will be properly tightened, free of charge.
For a free consultation with an experienced Chicago products liability lawyer at Passen & Powell, call us at (312) 527-4500.