Recall 10V554000: Possible Steering Shaft Fracturing

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Nissan/Frontier 2002-2004

Nissan/Xterra 2002-2004

MANUFACTURER: Nissan North America, Inc.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: November 12, 2010

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V554000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: N/A

COMPONENT: Steering: Column

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 500552

SUMMARY:
Nissan is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 Frontier vehicles manufactured from July 9, 2001 through October 20, 2004, and model year 2002-2004, Xterra vehicles manufactured from July 9, 2001, through January 6, 2005. Over time corrosion may form in the lower steering column joint and limit movement of the joint. The limited movement of this joint may create excessive load on the lower steering column shaft. If the vehicle continues to be driven in this condition, it may lead to cracking of the shaft during low speed maneuvers that require large steering inputs.

CONSEQUENCE:
The shaft may break which could result in loss of steering control during these low speed maneuvers increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
The steering column shaft and joint will be replaced with a shaft of a different design. This service will be performed free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during December 2010. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261

NOTES:
Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.