Nissan North America is recalling 20,000 2011 and 2012 model Altima sedans because an assembly defect can potentially cause the driver to loose control. Canton Mississippi built compact car – Nissan’s best seller – can have transverse link bolts that were improperly torqued on the assembly line.
A loose bolt would cause a rattling sound in the suspension. If the transverse link detaches completely, directional control problems could result, potentially leading to an accident. None have been reported thus far.
While conducting the recalls, Nissan will replace the transverse link bolts and nuts and tighten them to the proper torque specification free of charge as is required by U.S. safety regulations. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261. Owners can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline At 1-888-327 or http://www.safercar.gov.
