It is somewhat common for vehicles to have recalls, even if they are newer. The Nissan Altima is no different. Throughout the production of this vehicle, it has had numerous recalls. These range from functional concerns with the engine and transmission to electrical system concerns.
For those who are planning to purchase a 2018 Nissan Altima, it is critical to take the time to learn about any recalls on the car. It is also necessary to learn about any potential recalls that have not been taken care of. In nearly all situations, the manufacturer or dealership will handle recall repairs and updates as necessary. This ensures the work is done properly, and the issue is resolved. If you are considering the purchase of a vehicle that has a recall issue that has not been updated, it is best to contact the manufacturer for guidance.
About the 2018 Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima was designed as a compact car from its first production in 1992 through 2001. The company then changed the body type and style to a mid-sized vehicle in 2001. It remains a mid-sized car today. The vehicle is slightly larger and has a more powerful engine than the Nissan Sentra, but it smaller in performance and size than the Nissan Maxima.
The 2018 model year was manufactured in the United States and is sold in North and South America. This model year offers a five-seat vehicle with a 2.5-L DOHC 16 engine. This four-cylinder vehicle produces 179 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque. Several trim models exist for this model year.
Recalls on the 2018 Nissan Altima
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports the following recalls for the 2018 Nissan Altima as of August of 2020. There could be others issued over time.
Unintentional Release of the Primary Hood Latch
In May of 2020, Nissan released a recall on the vehicle. This relates to NHTSA campaign number 20V315000. The recall impacted numerous Nissan North America, Inc manufactured vehicles, including the 2018 model of the Altima.
The recall is for the unintentional release of the primary hood latch. This happens as a result of corrosion on the secondary latch. This can cause the latch to bind. It then remains in the unlatched position even when the hood has been closed properly.
If this occurs, the primary latch can be inadvertently released again, with the secondary latch is not engaged, resulting in an unexpected opening. This can occur when a person is driving the car. As a result, it can increase the risk of a vehicle crash occurring.
The recall impacted over 1.8 million vehicles from this manufacturer spanning from 2013 through 2018. Corrosion over time is the main cause of this problem.
As of this time, Nissan is still working to determine the best solution for the problem. However, the company did send a notice to all impacted vehicle owners. They were told how to maintain the latch and were reminded of the importance of fully closing the hood properly to ensure that the latch engages fully. This should be done prior to driving the vehicle.
Nissan also noted that a remedy to the problem would likely be available in the third quarter of 2021 after new parts are manufactured and become available.
Back-up Camera Display Failure
Another 2018 Nissan Altima recall relates to the lack of an image showing properly on the back-up camera display. This recall, NHTSA campaign number 19V654000, involved over 1.2 million vehicles made by Nissan North America, Inc.
In the 2018 and 2019 Nissan Altima, the back-up camera and display settings could cause potential back-over risk.
Users can adjust the settings to fit their needs, but they can do this in such a way that the rearview image is no longer visible. If a user did this, then turned off the vehicle, it could potentially maintain that setting the next time the driver put the vehicle in reverse. As a result, the driver may believe they can safely back up, but they do not have an actual view of the space behind the card.
This recall was issued due to a violation of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards number 111, “rear visibility” rule. Nissan recalled these vehicles beginning in November of 2019. It stated that all affected vehicles would receive a back-up camera software upgrade that would eliminate this risk.
How to Find Recalls on Your 2018 Nissan Altima
Nissan vehicles may be subject to recalls over time. For those who own a 2018 Nissan Altima, it can be very important to keep a close eye on any mailings from the manufacturer or your dealership to learn about potential recalls as they occur.
It is also possible to enter the vehicle’s VIN into the Nissan Recall Lookup tool. This allows you to search for any recalls associated with that particular vehicle. If you do not have the VIN, it is also possible to use the tool’s features to look for recalls based on the make, model, and year of the vehicle you own.
If a recall is issued, be sure to get it taken care of right away. That helps to safeguard your use of the car and keeps your family safe when you take it out on the road.
Photos: Nissan
