The Hook: A Double Whammy for America’s Popular SUV
If you drive a Nissan Rogue, check your mailbox. In a massive safety sweep that has dominated automotive news this week, Nissan is recalling nearly 640,000 of its best-selling SUVs in the United States. This isn’t just a minor sensor glitch; the automaker has identified two distinct, serious mechanical failures that could lead to engine fires or a sudden loss of power on the highway. With the 2023–2025 model years affected, hundreds of thousands of daily drivers are now asking the same question: Is my car safe to drive?
Deep Dive: Inside the Mechanical Failures
Federal regulators and Nissan have pinpointed two separate issues plaguing the 1.5-liter variable-compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engine found in these vehicles. Here is the breakdown of what is going wrong under the hood.
1. The Engine Bearing Threat (Recall R25E2)
Affected Models: Approximately 323,917 Nissan Rogues from model years 2023–2025.
The Problem: Investigations revealed that the engine’s bearings can overheat due to friction. If the oil temperature spikes too high, these bearings may fail or seize completely.
The Risk: A seized bearing can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving. Worse, in some scenarios, hot oil could leak onto other components, creating a potential fire hazard.
2. The Throttle Body Fracture (Recall R25E3)
Affected Models: About 318,781 Nissan Rogues from model years 2024–2025.
The Problem: The electronic throttle body—a valve that controls air intake—has internal gears that are prone to fracturing. This specifically happens during the car’s startup diagnostic check.
The Risk: If these gears break, the vehicle may enter a “limp mode” or lose drive power entirely, leaving drivers stranded or vulnerable in traffic.
The Fix:
Nissan has stated that dealers will update the engine control software to prevent these specific failures. Technicians will also inspect the engine and throttle components for existing damage. If your engine shows signs of bearing wear, Nissan has committed to replacing the entire engine assembly free of charge. Official owner notification letters are scheduled to mail out starting March 27, 2026.
The Impact: A Test of Consumer Trust
This recall hits at a critical time for Nissan, as the Rogue remains one of its most vital products in the North American market. While recalls are a standard part of the automotive industry, the severity of these issues—involving core engine mechanics rather than peripheral electronics—may shake consumer confidence. For now, owners are urged to stay alert for warning lights or unusual engine noises and to contact their local dealership immediately if symptoms arise before the official notice arrives.
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