Unintentional Release of Primary Hood Latch – 2013-2018 Nissan Altima

May 28, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V315000

Unintentional Release of Primary Hood Latch

Corrosion to the secondary latch may cause it to bind and remain in the unlatched position when the hood is closed. If the primary latch is inadvertently released again and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V315

Manufacturer Nissan North America, Inc.

Components LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Potential Number of Units Affected 1,831,818

 

Summary

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles. If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released, there is an increased likelihood that the secondary hood latch may corrode over time.

 

Remedy

Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will install a stronger release spring in the hood release lever, a warning label near the secondary hood latch, and an Owner’s Manual addendum card with instructions on how to lubricate and maintain the secondary hood latch mechanism, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed July 14, 2020. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. The remedy is expected to become available in July 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: Recall 16V-029 remains open for any unremedied 2013-2015 Altimas and this recall applies to all vehicles covered by 16V-029 even if those repairs have already been performed.

 

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

 

Check if your Nissan has a Recall

 

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SAFETY RECALL

CAMPAIGN BULLETIN

Hood Latch

Voluntary Safety Recall Campaign

 

Reference: R20A7
Date: July 24, 2020

 

Attention: Dealer Principal, Sales, Service & Parts Managers

REVISED July 24, 2020 Please discard earlier versions of this bulletin.

The announcement from June 2, 2020 has been revised to include the following: Interim repair information is now included, but is not applicable to new car inventory due to federal statute for stop sale. Upon customer request, dealers should inspect the latch for proper operation (clean and lube as needed, or replace the secondary latch if it is not fully functional) on affected retailed, rental, or commercial transport vehicles. The interim repair should also be completed on used vehicle inventory. Nissan is currently continuing development of its final remedy plan.

 

IMPORTANT:  It is a violation of Federal law for retailers to sell or deliver vehicles in their    inventory covered by this notification until the campaign action is performed. 

Affected Models/Years:	Affected Population:	Dealer Inventory:	SERVICE COMM Activation date:	Stop Sale  In Effect
2013-2018 Altima (L33)	1,831,818	4	June 2, 2020	YES

 

*Applicable to new vehicles; see instructions below and check your state laws for any restrictions on used vehicles in dealer inventory.

 

***** Campaign Summary *****

Nissan is committed to the safety and security of our customers and their passengers.  Nissan has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Transport Canada that it is recalling certain MY2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles to address a hood latch release issue. This recall will provide an additional remedy to previously recalled MY2013-2015 Nissan Altima vehicles in the US and Canada, and includes MY2016-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles.

NOTE:  Vehicles that have been previously remedied under PC426 are also subject to this recall.  If PC426 remains open, the vehicle should still be serviced to have the hood latch assembly replaced under PC426.

Over time, build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the hood latch assembly.  This build-up, combined with a lack of proper inspection and maintenance of the secondary hood latch, can create mechanical binding that could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position after it has been disengaged.  In such cases, if the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (ex. while refueling) or the hood is not closed properly, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed while the vehicle is in motion.

Owners of affected vehicles received an interim notification in July 2020, with reminders for proper hood latch inspection and maintenance as outlined in the owners manual and a reminder to ensure the hood is fully closed before driving their vehicle. Upon customer request, dealers should inspect the latch for proper operation, and clean and  lube as needed, or replace the  secondary  latch if it is not  fully functional, at no cost to the owner.

Nissan is continuing development of an additional remedy. Once the final remedy is available, owners will receive a final notification letter  instructing them to  bring their vehicle  to  an  authorized  Nissan  dealer to have the remedy work completed at no cost to the owner.

 

***** What Dealers Should Do**** 

1. Verify if vehicles are affected by this Voluntary Recall Campaign using Service Comm or DBS National Service History Campaign R20A7.
   • New vehicles in dealer inventory can also be identified using DBS (Sales-> Vehicle Inventory, and filter by Open Campaign).
     • Refer to NPSB 75-460 for additional information

2. Dealers must not sell, lease, trade, rent, or loan any vehicles in dealer inventory affected by this recall campaign until after the vehicle has been Nissan advises dealers to:
   • Complete any open recall under PC426
   • Perform the interim repair (inspect the hood latch for proper operation (clean and lube as needed, or replace it if the secondary latch is not fully functional)
   • Ensure that the hood is fully closed before driving and use care to avoid releasing the hood while refueling
   • Submit the appropriate claim for PC426 or the interim repair action(s) performed and release the Do not indicate R20A7 was performed on the repair order.

NOTE: Nissan will notify all owners when a final remedy is available. Until that time, Dealers should comply with all applicable laws governing rentals and sales of used vehicles.

 

3. No additional action is necessary at this time.

 

***** Release Schedule *****

Repair

Nissan is currently developing its final remedy plan. NOTE: Upon customer request, dealers should inspect the latch  for  proper  operation (clean and  lube as needed, or  replace the  latch  if the  secondary  latch is not  fully functional). Please refer to the chart  below  for  interim  repair  claiming information for affected retailed, fleet, rental, or commercial transport vehicles. This interim repair is not  applicable to new  car inventory due to federal statute for stop sale.

Owner Notification

Owners of affected vehicles are being mailed interim notifications between July 74 and July 27, 2020. The notice will inform them a final remedy is expected to be available in mid-2021 and remind owners of proper hood latch inspection and maintenance as outlined in the owners manual. Once the final remedy is available, owners will receive a final notification letter instructing them to bring their vehicle to an authorized Nissan dealer to have the remedy work completed at no cost to the owner.

 

***** Interim Repair Claims Information*****

Interim repairs are available upon customer request Please refer to the following chart for interim repair claiming information (refer to the Electronic Parts Catalog to identify the appropriate part(s) required) for affected retailed, fleet, rental, or commercial transport vehicles:

 

INTERIM REPAIR ID	SITUATIONINTERIM	ACTIONS	OP CODE
R20B2 R20B3	Customer concerns/requests of latch operation initial 6 months For follow-up maintenance after 6-72 months if needed	Inspect for proper operation and clean, lube, and/or replace hood latch as needed. (File claim for this interim repair and inform owner they still need to maintain the latch and return for the final remedy when notified in 2021)	R20B20 with 0.2h for grease hood latch R20B27 with 0.3h for replace hood latch (effective through December 2020) R20B30 with 0.2h for grease hood latch R20B37 with 0.3h for replace hood latch (effective beginning January 2027)
R20B2	Used vehicle for sale Retailed vehicle used for fleet (rental, commercial transport)	Inspect for proper operation  and clean, lube, and/or replace latch as needed.  If you confirm the latch is operating and sale or rental is permitted under applicable state law, be sure to disclose to the buyer that an open safety recall is still applicable, but an interim repair has been provided. Instruct the owner on maintenance (located in the Owner’s Manual) and ensuring the hood is latched before driving. Registered owners will receive a notification to return to the dealer for final remedy when it is available.   (File claim for this interim repair and inform owner they still need to maintain the latch and return for the final remedy when notified in 2021)	R20B20 with 0.2h for grease hood latch R20B27 with 0.3h for replace hood latch (effective through December 2020)
R20B3	For follow-up maintenance after 6-72 months if needed		R20B30 with 0.2h for grease hood latch R20B37 with 0.3h for replace hood latch (effective beginning January 2027)
	Customer experienced unintended hood opening and incurred damage or paid for repairs	If a customer reports injuries or damage to property (other than the vehicle) related to the hood opening while the vehicle was in motion, contact NNA Consumer Affairs. If the vehicle has incurred damage due to the hood opening while in motion, pre-approval is required before initiating body repairs. One-time reimbursement prior to campaign final remedy is available For vehicle damage only, dealers can contact the WCCC for pre-approval (required) and claims coding to repair the vehicle. *  Contact the Warranty claims call center 7-800- 258-7008 Option 7 *  Additionally, send an email to: QaintinsQections@nissan-usa.com with the following information: Include R20A7 in the subject line Photos of the VIN plate and odometer reading Photos of the damage (include all parts requiring repair) Estimate the total repair amount including rental expense while the vehicle is having the body damage repaired

 

NOTE: Interim repair claims will not close R2OA7 in Service Comm. Dealers should advise customers that once the final remedy is available, owners will receive a final notification letter instructing them to bring their vehicle to an authorized Nissan dealer to have the final remedy work completed.

 

***** Dealer Responsibility***** 

It is the dealer’s responsibility to check Service Comm or DBS National Service History using the appropriate Campaign ID. for the campaign status on each vehicle falling within the range of this voluntary safety recall campaign, which for any reason enters the service department. This includes vehicles purchased from private parties or presented by transient (tourist) owners and vehicles in dealer inventory. If a VIN subject to this recall campaign was part of a dealer trade, the letter associated with that VIN should be forwarded to the appropriate dealer for service completion.

 

NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Aftersales DIVISION

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

 

Q.	Is this a Safety recall?
A.	Yes.
Q.	Is this a Stop Sale?
A.	Yes. A stop sale is in affect for new vehicles in dealer inventory. Dealers  should follow instructions for the interim actions and comply with all applicable laws governing sales of used vehicles.
Q.	What is the reason for the Voluntary Safety Recall?
A.	The secondary hood latch may become stuck in the open position due to a potential for corrosion (in regions with excessive road salt use) in the hood latch combined with improper inspection and maintenance.
Q.	What is the possible effect of this condition?
A.	If the driver inadvertently releases the primary hood latch (ex. while refueling) or the hood is not closed properly, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed while the vehicle is in motion. The hood may open without warning and obstruct the driver’s forward view, and may increase the risk of crash.
Q.	What will be the corrective action for this voluntary recall campaign?
A.	A final remedy plan is currently under development. Nissan will provide all affected owners with an interim notification that reminds owners how to properly maintain the latch and also reminds those owners to fully close and engage the primary hood latch each time before driving their Altima. Dealers have been provided with instructions for an interim repair to help address customer concerns while awaiting the final remedy.
Q.	How is this recall campaign different than the previous recall?
A.	PC426 replaced the  secondary latch in MY13-15  vehicles  for  improved corrosion resistance. Owners of MY13-18 vehicles will receive an interim notification in July 2020, with reminders for proper hood latch inspection and maintenance as outlined in the owner’s manual and a reminder to ensure the hood is fully closed before driving their vehicle. Nissan is currently developing an additional remedy. NOTE: Vehicles that have been previously remedied under PC426 are also subject to this recall. If PC426 remains open, the vehicle should still be serviced to have the hood latch assembly replaced under PC426.
Q.	Can I sell a used vehicle affected by this recall?
A.	Dealers should inspect the hood latch of used vehicles for proper operation (clean and lube as needed, or replace the secondary latch if it is not fully functional) File applicable warranty claim per the Claims Information section of this announcement If you confirm the latch is operating and sale of a used vehicle with an open recall is permitted under applicable state law, the sale is not prohibited. Be sure to disclose to the buyer that an open safety recall is still applicable, but an interim repair has been provided. All registered owners will receive a notification to return to the dealer for final remedy when it is available. Instruct the used vehicle buyer on maintenance (located in the Owner’s Manual – see Altima Hood Latch General Maintenance below) and ensuring the hood is latched before driving.
Q.	Can I perform an interim repair for affected retailed, fleet, rental, or commercial transport vehicles?
A.	Yes. Upon customer request, Dealers should inspect the hood latch for proper operation (clean and lube as needed, or replace it if the secondary latch is not fully functional) File applicable warranty claim per the Claims Information section of this announcement announcement. Be sure to disclose to the owner that an open safety recall is still applicable, but an interim repair has been provided. All registered owners will receive a notification to return to the dealer for final remedy when it is available. Instruct the owner on maintenance (located in the Owner’s Manual – see Altima Hood Latch General Maintenance above) and ensuring the hood is latched before driving.
Q.	How long will the interim repair take?
A.	The interim repair should take approximately one (1) hour to complete. The dealer may require the vehicle for a longer period of time based upon the dealer’s work schedule.
Q.	How long will the final remedy action take?
A.	Nissan is currently developing its final remedy plan, which is expected to be available in mid-2021.
Q.	When will vehicle owners be notified?
A.	Owners of affected vehicles are being mailed interim notifications between July 14 and July 27, 2020. The notice will inform them a final remedy is expected to be available in mid-2021 and remind owners of proper hood latch inspection and maintenance as outlined in the owner’s manual. If the recommended actions do not allow full functionality of the secondary hood latch, owners are instructed to contact their dealer for further diagnosis. Once the final remedy is available, owners will receive a final notification letter instructing them to bring their vehicle to  an authorized  Nissan  dealer to  have the  remedy work completed at no cost to the owner.
Q.	Can the hood open while driving if the primary hood latch is engaged?
A.	No. The primary hood latch works as designed. The recall condition occurs if you inadvertently open the primary hood latch by pulling the hood release lever. In this condition, the secondary hood latch may not be engaged, which could allow the hood to open while driving.
Q.	Is my vehicle safe to drive?
A.	If your vehicle is subject  to  this campaign, you  received  an  Owner  Notification  letter with reminders for proper hood latch inspection and maintenance as outlined in the owner’s manual. If the secondary latch is stucl< open, please ensure your hood is securely closed using the primary latch and bring your vehicle to the  nearest dealer for service. Nissan recommends drivers use care to avoid releasing the hood when refueling and check to ensure the hood is fully closed and latched before driving their vehicle.
Q.	Is there anything owners can do to mitigate this condition?
A.	Yes. If the vehicle is subject to this campaign, customers will receive an Owner  Notification  letter with reminders for proper  hood latch inspection  and  maintenance  as outlined in the  owner’s manual. If the secondary latch is stucl< open, please ensure your hood is securely closed using the primary latch and bring your vehicle to  the  nearest dealer for  service. Nissan recommends drivers use care to avoid releasing the hood when refueling and check to ensure the hood is fully closed and latched before driving their vehicle.
Q.	Can the customer identify the concern?
A.	The customer may detect the condition if the following situations occur: The hood may flutter or mal<e noise before it opens while driving The IKEY may reflect an error if equipped with remote engine start The customer may observe the secondary hood latch stuck open while servicing or inspecting the hood latch assembly
Q.	Are parts readily available?
A.	Parts are available for the interim repair upon customer request. Nissan is currently developing its final remedy plan.
Q.	Will a rental vehicle be provided while the dealer is servicing the vehicle?
A.	Nissan is currently developing its final remedy plan. However, Nissan has authorized alternate transportation while the vehicle is being repaired, if the vehicle has incurred damage due to the hood opening while in motion.
Q.	Is there any charge for customer requested interim repairs?
A.	No. The interim repair will be performed for the customer free of charge for parts and labor.
Q.	Is there any charge for the final repair?
A.	No. The final remedy, once identified, will be performed for the customer free of charge for parts and labor.
Q.	Will I have to take my vehicle back to the selling dealer to have either service performed?
A.	No, any authorized Nissan dealer is able to perform the repair(s). For Consumer Affairs: Please inform us of the dealer where you would lil<e to have the corrective action completed.
Q.	I have lost confidence in the vehicle. Will Nissan replace or repurchase the vehicle?
A.	The final remedy, once identified, will fully correct this condition. As the condition will be  corrected and an interim repair is available upon owner request, repurchase or replacement of the vehicle will not be necessary.
Q.	What model year vehicles are involved?
A.	Model Year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima (L33) vehicles manufactured in the Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants from March 06, 2012 (SOP) to August 77, 2018 (EOP) are potentially affected.
Q.	Are you experiencing this condition on any other Nissan (or INFINITI) models?
A.	No. This issue is unique to Model Year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles due to a combination of the model frontend design, anti-corrosion limitations and location of the hood latch release in close proximity to the fuel door release. This issue does not affect any other Nissan or INFINITI vehicles.

 

Revision History: 

Date	Announcement	Purpose
June 2, 2020	Original Document	New campaign announcement
July 24, 2020	REVISION 1	Interim repair information now included

 

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NHTSA RECALL 20V-315
NHTSA RECALL 16V-029

INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION
NOTIFICACIÓN PROVISIONAL AL PROPIETARIO

 

Dear Nissan Altima owner:

This interim notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

Nissan has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2018 Model Year Altima vehicles.  Our records indicate you own or lease a Nissan vehicle subject to this recall as identified by the VIN on the inside of this notice.

 

Reason for Recall
Motivo del Retiro

If your vehicle is driven with the primary hood latch disengaged (and the hood partially opened), the secondary hood latch on your vehicle may become contaminated with dirt or corrosion, preventing it from engaging properly.  If the primary hood latch is later inadvertently released (such as when refueling the vehicle) and the secondary hood latch is stuck open, the hood may open without warning while driving and could obscure the driver’s vision, increasing the risk of a crash.

 

What Nissan Will Do
Qué Hará Nissan 

Nissan is currently preparing a remedy for your vehicle.  The remedy for this recall is anticipated to be available in mid-2021.  When the remedy is available, Nissan will send you a second letter asking you to bring your vehicle to a Nissan dealer for repair, which will be free of charge for parts and labor.

In addition to this action, Nissan previously sent you a recall letter stating that Nissan will replace the hood latch assembly on your vehicle with a new one, free of charge.  Our records show that this previous recall is still open on your vehicle and needs to be performed as soon as possible.  This repair should take less than one (1) hour to complete.  However, your dealer may require your vehicle for a longer period of time based upon their work schedule.   

 

What You Should Do
Qué Debes Hacer

We urge you to contact your Nissan dealer as soon as possible to arrange an appointment to have the previous recall repair performed.  The Nissan dealer will replace your hood latch assembly, free of charge for parts and labor.

Comunícate con cualquier concesionario Nissan a la mayor brevedad para concertar una cita de reparación para tu vehículo.  El concesionario Nissan reemplazará su cerrojo del capó sin cargos.

Additionally, until the new recall remedy is available, Nissan recommends that you press firmly on the front center of the hood to ensure it is fully closed and latched with the primary hood latch each time before driving your 2018 Altima.  Figures 1 and 2 below illustrate hood open and closed positions.  Additionally, use caution not to inadvertently release the hood when pulling the fuel door release lever during refueling as illustrated in figure 3 below.

Adicionalmente, hasta que una reparación adecuada esté disponible, Nissan recomienda presionar firmemente el centro delantero del capó (cofre) para asegurarse de que esté completamente cerrado y enganchado con el cerrojo primario del capó (cofre) cada vez antes de conducir su Altima 2018. Las figuras 1 y 2 que se muestran a continuación, ilustran las posiciones abiertas y cerradas del capó. Además, tenga cuidado de no liberar accidentalmente el capó al tirar de la palanca de liberación de la puerta de combustible durante el reabastecimiento de combustible como se ilustra a continuación en la figura 3.

 

Nissan requires regular service of the hood latch by lubricating the primary and secondary latches as prescribed in your owner’s manual

Section [ 9 ]- Maintenance and do-it-yourself, Page [ 9-2 ] General Maintenance – EXPLANATION OF GENERAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS.

For more information about the recall and additional guidance on how to inspect and lubricate the hood latch, please visit https://nna.secure.force.com/recall?camp=R20A7.

 

Nissan le requiere dar servicio regular al cerrojo del capó (cofre) mediante la lubricación de los cerrojos primario y secundario como se prescribe en el manual del propietario

Sección [ 9 ] – Mantenimiento y hágalo-usted-mismo, Página [ 9-2 ] Mantenimiento general – EXPLICACIÓN DE LOS ARTÍCULOS GENERALES DE MANTENIMIENTO.

 

Para obtener más información sobre el retiro del mercado y orientación adicional sobre cómo inspeccionar y lubricar el cerrojo del capó, por favor visite https://nna.secure.force.com/recall?camp=R20A7.

 

If the recommended actions do not allow full functionality of the secondary hood latch, contact your local dealer for further diagnosis.

 

Si las acciones recomendadas no permiten la funcionalidad completa del cerrojo secundario del capó, comuníquese con su distribuidor local para obtener un diagnóstico adicional.

 

If the recommended actions do not allow full functionality of the secondary hood latch, contact your local dealer for further diagnosis.

 

If you have any questions that are not answered by the website above, you may contact the National Consumer Affairs Department, Nissan North America, Inc. P.O. Box 685003, Franklin, TN 37068-5003. The toll free number is 1-800-867-7669.

 

Si tiene alguna pregunta que el sitio web no haya respondido anteriormente, puedes contactar al

Departamento Nacional de Asuntos del Consumidor a: National Consumer Affairs Department, Nissan North America, Inc. P.O. Box 685003, Franklin, TN 37068-5003. El número libre de cargos es 1-800-8677669.

 

You may also submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590; or call the toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

 

Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.

 

Thank you for your cooperation.  We appreciate your Nissan ownership and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.

 

Gracias por tu cooperación. Agradecemos tu patrocinio como dueño de un Nissan y te ofrecemos nuestras disculpas por cualquier inconveniente que esto pueda ocasionar.

 

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May 28, 2020

 

Mr. Jeff Giuseppe
Associate Administrator for Enforcement
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Attn: Recall Management Division (NVS-215)
Room W48-302
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, D.C. 20590

 

Dear Mr. Giuseppe:

We are transmitting the enclosed Defect Information Report in accordance with 49 CFR Part 573.  A voluntary recall campaign will be initiated and your office provided with the notices.

 

Very truly,

Derek Latta
Manager,
Technical Compliance

Encl.

 

DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT

 

1. Manufacturer:

Nissan North America, Inc.

 

2. Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Certain 2013-2018 Model Year Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured in the Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants from March 6, 2012 (start of production) to August 17, 2018 (end of production).

All vehicles subject to Recall 16V-029 are included in this recall population, including both those that did and did not receive the recall repair.

In addition, the subject vehicle range is expanded to include 2016-2018 Model Year Altima vehicles that contain the subject hood latch assembly.

This issue is unique to Model Year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles due to a combination of the model front end design, anti-corrosion limitations and location of the hood latch release in close proximity to the fuel door release.  This issue does not affect any other Nissan or INFINITI vehicles.

 

3. Total Number of Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Approximately 1,831,818 Nissan Altima vehicles.

The recall population above includes 846,009 Nissan Altima vehicles that were subject to Recall 16V-029.

 

4. Percentage of Vehicles Estimated to Actually Contain the Defect:

100%

 

5. Description of the Defect:

Over time, build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the hood latch assembly.  This build-up, combined with a lack of proper inspection and maintenance of the secondary hood latch, can create mechanical binding that could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position after it has been disengaged.  In such cases, if the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (ex. while refueling) or the hood is not closed properly after engine service, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed as designed while the vehicle is in motion.  If this condition occurs, the hood may open without warning and obstruct the driver’s forward view, increasing the risk of crash.

 

6. Chronology of Principal Events:

Nissan will supplement this chronology of principal events.

 

7. Description of Corrective Action:

A remedy plan is currently under development.  Nissan will notify all affected owners (including those that received the previous remedy under Recall 16V-029) within 60 days of this letter.  The interim notification will instruct owners how to properly maintain the latch per the Owner’s Manual general maintenance requirements and include a reminder to fully close and engage the primary hood latch each time before driving.  Dealers will be notified on June 2, 2020.

Your office will be provided with the Part 577 interim owner notification.

 

8. Copy of Notices:

Copies of all notices will be provided to NHTSA as they become available.

 

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August 13, 2020

 

Mr. Jeff Giuseppe
Associate Administrator for Enforcement
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Attn: Recall Management Division (NVS-215)
Room W48-302
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, D.C. 20590

 

Dear Mr. Giuseppe:

 

We are transmitting the enclosed supplement to the Defect Information Report filed on May 28, 2020.  This supplement updates section(s) 6 and 7: Chronology of Principal Events and Description of Corrective Action, respectively.

 

Very truly,

Derek Latta
Manager,
Technical Compliance

 

Encl.

 

DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT

 

1. Manufacturer:

Nissan North America, Inc.

 

2. Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Certain 2013-2018 Model Year Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured in the Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants from March 6, 2012 (start of production) to August 17, 2018 (end of production).

 

All vehicles subject to Recall 16V-029 are included in this recall population, including both those that did and did not receive the recall repair.

 

In addition, the subject vehicle range is expanded to include 2016-2018 Model Year Altima vehicles that contain the subject hood latch assembly.

 

This issue is unique to Model Year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles due to a combination of the model front end design, anti-corrosion limitations and location of the hood latch release in close proximity to the fuel door release.  This issue does not affect any other Nissan or INFINITI vehicles.

 

3. Total Number of Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Approximately 1,831,818 Nissan Altima vehicles.

 

The recall population above includes 846,009 Nissan Altima vehicles that were subject to Recall 16V-029.

 

4. Percentage of Vehicles Estimated to Actually Contain the Defect:

100%

 

5. Description of the Defect:

Over time, build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the hood latch assembly.  This build-up, combined with a lack of proper inspection and maintenance of the secondary hood latch, can create mechanical binding that could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position after it has been disengaged.  In such cases, if the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (ex. while refueling) or the hood is not closed properly after engine service, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed as designed while the vehicle is in motion.  If this condition occurs, the hood may open without warning and obstruct the driver’s forward view, increasing the risk of crash.

 

6. Chronology of Principal Events:

September 2014 – Nissan initiated Recall 14V-565 for MY2013 Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured during March 6, 2012 to February 28, 2013 due to potential interference between the hood inner panel and the secondary latch lever.  This interference, in combination with debris and corrosion, could create mechanical binding that may cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position.  Dealers were instructed to modify the bend angle of the hood actuation lever to eliminate the potential interference with the hood inner panel.  In addition, dealers conditioned the latch joint with application of cleaner and lubricant as needed.  If dealers identified significant corrosion, the latch assembly was replaced.

 

January 2015 to March 2015 – Nissan received reports of incidents involving vehicles outside the 14V-565 recall population range.  Initial investigation of the returned hood latches indicated potential incorrect anti-corrosion coating thickness.  Analysis of the returned hood latches and the supplier manufacturing process confirmed that the previous Tier 3 supplier’s application of anti-corrosion coating could create a condition that could lead to mechanical binding.  Under certain conditions, the binding could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position.

 

Nissan initiated Recall 15V-116 on all MY2013-2015 Nissan Altima vehicles equipped with the subject latch assembly, manufactured during March 1, 2013 to December 31, 2014.  Dealers were instructed to inspect and lubricate the secondary hood latch assembly, and to replace the latch assembly if the dealer identified significant corrosion.

 

March 2015 to January 2016 – Nissan continued to monitor the effectiveness of the previous campaign repairs in the field and further consider their long-term robustness.  Based on engineering judgment, Nissan decided to recall all vehicles equipped with the affected hood latch assembly to replace the latch with a countermeasure part that had improved anti-corrosion coating.  Recall 16V-029, consolidated the affected vehicle populations of the 14V-565 and 15V-116 recalls and superseded them.  The 16V-029 recall included vehicles that had already received the previous remedy.

 

December 2018 to April 2019 – Nissan became aware of a field incident that reportedly involved hood latch corrosion on a post-remedy (Recall 16V-029) vehicle.  Nissan immediately launched an investigation into the issue.  Nissan collected the subject hood latch, which showed signs of heavy corrosion on the secondary latch mechanism. Later investigation determined that Recall 16V-029 remained open on this vehicle, and it did not have the replacement latch repair performed.

 

Nissan’s continuing investigation identified additional warranty claims involving reported latch replacement post-remedy completion (Recall 16V-029).  Nissan initiated a warranty parts collection activity for post-countermeasure production vehicles and post-remedy (Recall 16V-029) vehicles and worked together with the supplier to investigate the returned parts.  However, the results of the initial supplier testing were inconclusive.

 

May 2019 through January 2020 – Nissan initiated a second, more extensive, parts collection activity for post countermeasure production vehicles and post-remedy (Recall 16V-019) vehicles in both salt regions and non-salt regions to locate hood latches that exhibited excessive corrosion and binding of the secondary latch mechanism.  This action included not only warranty parts return but also collecting a significant number of parts from the field to investigate the surface coating condition.

 

Nissan worked extensively with Altima customers to locate and organize scramble opportunities to inspect latches with heavy corrosion that matched the subject condition of Recall 16V-029.  Nissan collected thirteen (13) parts from the field scramble that appeared to show corrosion on the secondary latch mechanism.  Of these parts, four (4) had the previous recall (16V-029) repair performed.

 

Overall, 110 latches were collected for analysis, 53 of which were reported as hood opening while driving. Nissan’s initial analysis showed heavy corrosion on thirty-six (36) of the parts.  Ten (10) of the corroded parts were not stuck.  The twenty-six (26) corroded parts reviewed with a “stuck” secondary latch mechanism included both precountermeasure and post-countermeasure parts (anti-corrosion coating condition was sufficient).

 

Nissan continued to review scramble investigation activity results to determine why the collected post-countermeasure latches with improved corrosion coating were exhibiting heavy corrosion.

 

February 2020 through May 2020 – Findings from the vehicle scramble reviews combined with analysis of returned parts revealed that inadvertent release of the primary hood latch played a role in the heavy corrosion of the hood latch mechanism.  If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (e.g. while refueling), build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the secondary hood latch assembly.  Without proper maintenance, there is an increased likelihood that the secondary hood latch may corrode even with adequate post-countermeasure anti-corrosion coating.

 

May 20, 2020 – Although Nissan was not aware of any injuries or fatalities attributed to this condition for those customers who received a Recall 16V-029 repair or were outside of the Recall 16V-029 population, based on the additional findings obtained through the scrambles and field collection activities and analysis, Nissan decided to conduct this safety recall campaign.  This final recall remedy was still under development.

 

7. Description of Corrective Action:

A remedy plan is currently under development.  Nissan re-notified all affected owners (including those that received the previous remedy under Recall 16V-029) beginning on July 14, 2020 and concluding on July 27, 2020.  The interim notification instructed owners how to properly maintain the latch per the Owner’s Manual general maintenance requirements and included a reminder to fully close and engage the primary hood latch each time before driving.  Dealers were notified on June 2, 2020.

 

8. Copy of Notices:

Copies of all notices will be provided to NHTSA as they become available.

 

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September 16, 2020

 

Mr. Jeff Giuseppe
Associate Administrator for Enforcement
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Attn: Recall Management Division (NVS-215)
Room W48-302
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, D.C. 20590

 

Dear Mr. Giuseppe:

 

We are transmitting the enclosed amendment to the Defect Information Report filed on August 13, 2020.  This supplement updates section 6: Chronology of Principal Events.

 

Very truly,

Derek Latta
Manager,
Technical Compliance

 

Encl.

 

DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT

 

1. Manufacturer:

Nissan North America, Inc.

 

2. Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Certain 2013-2018 Model Year Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured in the Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants from March 6, 2012 (start of production) to August 17, 2018 (end of production).

 

All vehicles subject to Recall 16V-029 are included in this recall population, including both those that did and did not receive the recall repair.

 

In addition, the subject vehicle range is expanded to include 2016-2018 Model Year Altima vehicles that contain the subject hood latch assembly.

 

This issue is unique to Model Year 2013-2018 Nissan Altima vehicles due to a combination of the model front end design, anti-corrosion limitations and location of the hood latch release in close proximity to the fuel door release.  This issue does not affect any other Nissan or INFINITI vehicles.

 

3. Total Number of Vehicles Potentially Involved:

Approximately 1,831,818 Nissan Altima vehicles.

 

The recall population above includes 846,009 Nissan Altima vehicles that were subject to Recall 16V-029.

 

4. Percentage of Vehicles Estimated to Actually Contain the Defect:

100%

 

5. Description of the Defect:

Over time, build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the hood latch assembly.  This build-up, combined with a lack of proper inspection and maintenance of the secondary hood latch, can create mechanical binding that could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position after it has been disengaged.  In such cases, if the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (ex. while refueling) or the hood is not closed properly after engine service, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed as designed while the vehicle is in motion.  If this condition occurs, the hood may open without warning and obstruct the driver’s forward view, increasing the risk of crash.

 

 

6. Chronology of Principal Events:

September 2014 – Nissan initiated Recall 14V-565 for MY2013 Nissan Altima vehicles manufactured during March 6, 2012 to February 28, 2013 due to potential interference between the hood inner panel and the secondary latch lever.  This interference, in combination with debris and corrosion, could create mechanical binding that may cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position.  Dealers were instructed to modify the bend angle of the hood actuation lever to eliminate the potential interference with the hood inner panel.  In addition, dealers conditioned the latch joint with application of cleaner and lubricant as needed.  If dealers identified significant corrosion, the latch assembly was replaced.

 

January 2015 to March 2015 – Nissan received reports of incidents involving vehicles outside the 14V-565 recall population range.  Initial investigation of the returned hood latches indicated potential incorrect anti-corrosion coating thickness.  Analysis of the returned hood latches and the supplier manufacturing process confirmed that the previous Tier 3 supplier’s application of anti-corrosion coating could create a condition that could lead to mechanical binding.  Under certain conditions, the binding could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position.

 

Nissan initiated Recall 15V-116 on all MY2013-2015 Nissan Altima vehicles equipped with the subject latch assembly, manufactured during March 1, 2013 to December 31, 2014.  Dealers were instructed to inspect and lubricate the secondary hood latch assembly, and to replace the latch assembly if the dealer identified significant corrosion.

 

March 2015 to January 2016 – Nissan continued to monitor the effectiveness of the previous campaign repairs in the field and further consider their long-term robustness.  Based on engineering judgment, Nissan decided to recall all vehicles equipped with the affected hood latch assembly to replace the latch with a countermeasure part that had improved anti-corrosion coating.  Recall 16V-029, consolidated the affected vehicle populations of the 14V-565 and 15V-116 recalls and superseded them.  The 16V-029 recall included vehicles that had already received the previous remedy.

 

December 2018 to April 2019 – Nissan became aware of a field incident that reportedly involved hood latch corrosion on a post-remedy (Recall 16V-029) vehicle.  Nissan immediately launched an investigation into the issue.  Nissan collected the subject hood latch, which showed signs of heavy corrosion on the secondary latch mechanism. Later investigation determined that Recall 16V-029 remained open on this vehicle, and it did not have the replacement latch repair performed.

 

Nissan’s continuing investigation identified additional warranty claims involving reported latch replacement post-remedy completion (Recall 16V-029).  Nissan initiated a warranty parts collection activity for post-countermeasure production vehicles and post-remedy (Recall 16V-029) vehicles and worked together with the supplier to investigate the returned parts.  However, the results of the initial supplier testing were inconclusive.

 

May 2019 through January 2020 – Nissan initiated a second, more extensive, parts collection activity for post countermeasure production vehicles and post-remedy (Recall 16V-019) vehicles in both salt regions and non-salt regions to locate hood latches that exhibited excessive corrosion and binding of the secondary latch mechanism.  This action included not only warranty parts return but also collecting a significant number of parts from the field to investigate the surface coating condition.

 

Nissan worked extensively with Altima customers to locate and organize scramble opportunities to inspect latches with heavy corrosion that matched the subject condition of Recall 16V-029.  Nissan collected thirteen (13) parts from the field scramble that appeared to show corrosion on the secondary latch mechanism.  Of these parts, four (4) had the previous recall (16V-029) repair performed.

 

Overall, 110 latches were collected for analysis, 53 of which were reported as hood opening while driving. Nissan’s initial analysis showed heavy corrosion on thirty-six (36) of the parts.  Ten (10) of the corroded parts were not stuck.  The twenty-six (26) corroded parts reviewed with a “stuck” secondary latch mechanism included both precountermeasure and post-countermeasure parts (anti-corrosion coating condition was sufficient).

 

Nissan continued to review scramble investigation activity results to determine why the collected post-countermeasure latches with improved corrosion coating were exhibiting heavy corrosion.

 

February 2020 through May 2020 – Findings from the vehicle scramble reviews combined with analysis of returned parts revealed that inadvertent release of the primary hood latch played a role in the heavy corrosion of the hood latch mechanism.  If the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (e.g. while refueling), build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the secondary hood latch assembly.  Without proper maintenance, there is an increased likelihood that the secondary hood latch may corrode even with adequate post-countermeasure anti-corrosion coating.

 

May 20, 2020 – Although Nissan was not aware of any injuries or fatalities attributed to this condition for those customers who received a Recall 16V-029 repair or were outside of the Recall 16V-029 population, based on the additional findings obtained through the scrambles and field collection activities and analysis, Nissan decided to conduct this safety recall campaign.  This final recall remedy was still under development.

 

September 3, 2020 – Nissan became aware of one claim of injury as described above that, while not considered during the May 20 decision, was filed prior to this date.  Nissan subsequently re-confirmed that no other injury or fatality claims as described in the section above were known at the time of the May 20, 2020 decision.

 

7. Description of Corrective Action:

A remedy plan is currently under development.  Nissan re-notified all affected owners (including those that received the previous remedy under Recall 16V-029) beginning on July 14, 2020 and concluding on July 27, 2020.  The interim notification instructed owners how to properly maintain the latch per the Owner’s Manual general maintenance requirements and included a reminder to fully close and engage the primary hood latch each time before driving.  Dealers were notified on June 2, 2020.

 

8. Copy of Notices:

Copies of all notices will be provided to NHTSA as they become available.

 

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6 Affected Products

Vehicle

MAKE	MODEL	YEAR
NISSAN	ALTIMA	2013-2018

 

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11 Associated Documents

Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)

RCMN-20V315-7848.pdf 466.562KB

 

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Miscellaneous Document – Defect Information Report

RMISC-20V315-2669.pdf 67.509KB

 

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Recall Acknowledgement

RCAK-20V315-2879.pdf 401.057KB

 

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Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-20V315-5070.PDF 213.878KB

 

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ISSUED Interim Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RIONL-20V315-4758.pdf 181.183KB

 

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August 13, 2020 AMENDED DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT

RMISC-20V315-9660.pdf 71.384KB

 

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Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc) – NISSAN July 24, 2020

RCMN-20V315-3835.pdf 2057.191KB

 

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Recall 573 Report-Amendment 2

RCLRPT-20V315-6338.PDF 213.932KB

 

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September 16, 2020 DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT 2ND AMENDED

RMISC-20V315-0010.pdf 72.008KB

 

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Recall 573 Report-Amendment 1

RCLRPT-20V315-7737.PDF 213.915KB

 

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Recall 573 Report-Amendment 3

RCLRPT-20V315-1575.PDF 214.194KB

 

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Latest Recalls Documents

For the Latest and Most Recent Recalls Information Visit the link below…

https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=20V315&docType=RCL

 

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