Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Earlier this year in August 2023, Nissan issued a recall affecting more than 236,000 Sentra sedans produced between 2020 and 2022 due to a defective component that could potentially hinder steering functionality.
In more severe cases, this issue may result in a loss of control for the driver. While some of these vehicles might have previously undergone a recall in 2021 for a similar problem, they now require additional repairs.
The steering defect centers around the vehicle’s tie rod, a component responsible for linking the steering system to the drive wheels. In affected vehicles, the tie rod can readily bend when subjected to significant impact forces, such as colliding with a curb.
This can lead to noticeable vibration and an off-center steering wheel. In the worst-case scenario, if the tie rod fails, it could result in a partial loss of steering control.
Signs Your Nissan Might be Affected
Signs that your Nissan Sentra’s steering system may be affected include:
- Difficulty Turning the Key
- No-Start Condition
- Stalling
- Vibration in the Steering Wheel
- Intermittent Loss of Lighting and Accessories
- Silent Starter Motor
- Inconsistent Electrical Issues
- Hotter or Colder Temperatures Affect Operation
If you notice any of these signs, we recommend having your Nissan vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
How Can I Address the Nissan Sentra Tie Rod Issue?
If you own a 2020 to 2022 Nissan sedan and are experiencing steering issues such as the Nissan Sentra steering wheel vibration problem, you should contact a Nissan dealer to arrange for recall repairs. Dealerships are set to replace both the left and right tie rods with newly designed parts once they become available, a process expected to start sometime this winter season.
During this period, owners are encouraged to bring their vehicles to authorized dealerships for inspection. Any identified damage, including broken or bent tie rods, will be promptly replaced, and both the inspection and replacement procedures will be carried out at no cost to affected drivers.
Owners who wish to inquire further about this recall or schedule their vehicle for inspection and repair can contact Nissan directly at 800-867-7669. For reference purposes, the NHTSA has assigned the recall campaign number 23V581.
Additionally, Nissan has designated this recall as R23B3. Importantly, this recall supersedes and extends the scope of recall number 21V461 from 2021. If your vehicle has previously undergone repairs under the 21V461 recall, it will still require the new repair outlined in this updated campaign.
How Can I Check for Open Recalls on my Nissan Sentra?
To determine if your Nissan Sentra has any open recalls, follow these four steps:
- Start by visiting the official website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Locate your car’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can usually find it on your vehicle’s dashboard, registration, or insurance documents.
- On the NHTSA website, you’ll find a dedicated tool where you can enter your VIN. The system will instantly check if there are any open recalls associated with your Nissan Sentra. If no recalls appear, it indicates that your vehicle currently does not have any open recalls.
- Keep in mind that recalls can be announced regularly. To stay informed about any future recall notifications related to your vehicle, it’s advisable to periodically revisit the NHTSA’s website.
Given the frequency of recall announcements by automakers, it is advisable to periodically revisit the NHTSA’s website to stay informed about any future recall notifications related to your vehicle.
In documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Nissan acknowledges having received 91 reports of tie rods breaking or bending and five associated accidents. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries resulting from this issue.
What Should I Do Next?
Today’s cars are intricate systems with numerous interconnected components, and manufacturing errors can occasionally disrupt their operation. To ensure your safety and the continued performance of your vehicle, make it a priority to check if your 2020-2022 Sentra has been subject to any recalls related to manufacturing defects.
To stay informed, keep a watchful eye on communications from Nissan, the manufacturer, and the NHTSA. In the case of the Sentra Tie Rod recall, prompt action and staying informed can help you maintain both the safety and reliability of your Nissan vehicle.
If you experience persistent issues with a Sentra vehicle that has not been recalled, you may want to explore Lemon Law help. The Lemon Law Experts can guide you through the legal process of seeking a refund, replacement, or compensation for your persistently defective vehicle, ensuring you get the resolution you deserve in California. Learn more about your options by contacting our team today.
