Dangerous Defect Prompts Nissan Recall

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Nissan Motor Co has announced a major recall of its 2013-2015 Altima midsize cars to address potentially faulty hood latches. The problem can cause the hood to fly open unexpectedly while the car is in motion. The new recall covers 846,000 Altima vehicles manufactured in the United States between March 6, 2012 and December 31, 2014. An additional 24,895 cars in Canada are also being recalled for the same problem. The Altima is Nissan’s top selling vehicle, accounting for nearly 25% of Nissan’s sales last year.

According to the company, improperly applied rust coating can flake off the secondary hood latch, exposing bare metal. Over time, the latch can rust and become stuck in the open position. If the main hood latch is inadvertently left open before the car is driven, the secondary latch can fail, causing the hood to suddenly and unexpectedly open. When this happens, the driver is unable to see the road ahead, greatly increasing the risk of a serious crash.

This will be the third time since 2014 that the Japanese automaker has recalled vehicles to address this issue. In previous recalls, dealers adjusted the latch and applied lubricant. The company now admits that the so-called “fix” may not have been enough to remove the safety risk. Nissan will re-notify all affected Altima owners about the new recall beginning mid-February. This time, dealers will replace the hood latch with a new one at no cost. The new hood latch comes with an improved rust-resistant coating.

As vehicle recalls become ever-more commonplace, there is a tendency for many drivers to ignore notices or put off having repairs completed in a timely fashion. As a result, close to one-in-four U.S. motorists are riding around in cars and trucks that may be unsafe. Ignoring a recall notice is risky business. Not only can it increase your chances of being hurt in a wreck; in some cases, it may also harm your chances of recovering financial compensation. If you have received a notice that a vehicle you own has been recalled, you are urged to call your local dealership immediately and make an appointment to have the problem fixed. Also, if you are purchasing a used car, be sure to check the NHTSA website to see if the car has been recalled. Then verify with the dealer that the repairs have been made.

Maryland Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Those Injured in Accidents Caused by Defective Auto Parts

If you believe that a defective auto part was responsible for a car accident in which you or someone you love was seriously injured, you may be entitled to compensation. Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have successfully obtained more than $100 million for accident victims and their families. Contact us online or call 800-547-4LAW (4529) today to schedule your free consultation with one of our experienced and highly skilled car accident lawyers. A qualified member of our legal team is available to take your call 24 hours a day.

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