The 2021 Nissan Rogue, one of Nissan’s popular compact SUVs, is currently under investigation by the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) due to reports of safety defects. Two major concerns have emerged—one involving inner tie rod failures that could lead to a loss of steering control, and the other concerning engine failures that could result in a complete loss of motive power. These issues raise significant safety risks for drivers and passengers, and Nissan is facing increasing scrutiny as the investigations unfold.
Inner Tie Rod Failures: Loss of Steering Control
One of the top issues reported is inner tie rod failures, which can lead to a sudden and complete loss of steering control. The ODI received reports from owners and early warning data indicating that these failures can occur on either the driver’s or passenger’s side of the vehicle. In several instances, the vehicles had to be towed for repairs.
One notable case involved a 2021 Nissan Rogue owner who experienced a sudden and severe steering malfunction while pulling out of a parking lot. According to the owner, the steering wheel suddenly pulled to the right, causing the front passenger tire to become misaligned. The vehicle became undrivable, multiple warning lights illuminated, and it had to be towed to a dealership. Although the dealership diagnosed a bent tie rod and performed a repair, the steering wheel did not return to its normal position. The owner reported no impact that could have caused the damage, yet the manufacturer declined to cover the repair under warranty. This incident occurred with just over 16,600 miles on the vehicle, raising concerns about the durability and safety of the Rogue’s steering system.
This ongoing investigation into tie rod failures has raised serious concerns about the overall safety of the vehicle, as a sudden loss of steering control could lead to catastrophic accidents.
Engine Failures: Loss of Motive Power
In addition to the tie rod issue, the 2021 Nissan Rogue is also under investigation for engine failures that could lead to a complete loss of motive power. The ODI has identified multiple reports of engine knock, strange noises, and metal chunks or shavings found in the oil pan of vehicles equipped with Nissan’s KR15DDT and KR20DDET engines. The KR15DDT, a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine, is found in the Rogue, while the KR20DDET, a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, powers other models such as the Altima, QX50, and QX55.
The variable compression ratio engines, designed to deliver both high power and fuel efficiency, have shown an elevated failure rate. These engine issues have been linked to bearing and L-link damage, which could lead to total engine failure, leaving drivers stranded or worse, in a dangerous situation while driving. Nissan has made manufacturing changes in an attempt to address these issues, but the investigation is still open as the company works to find a more permanent solution.
Alongside these investigations, the 2021 Nissan Rogue has been the subject of several recalls, addressing a variety of safety concerns:
- Missing Internal Bushing in Brake Calipers – This defect could lead to brake fluid loss, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Rear View Camera Malfunctions – The rearview camera display may become inoperative, reducing rear visibility and raising the risk of an accident.
- Seat Belt Retraction Issues – Some seat belts may not retract properly, making them difficult to use, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Fuel Pump Overheating – An overheated fuel pump can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, posing a serious safety risk.
- Second Row Seatback Welding Issues – Improperly welded seatbacks may fail to secure a child seat, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a sudden stop or crash.
- Wheel Separation Risk – Incorrectly fitted wheel nuts could cause the wheel assembly to separate from the vehicle, which could result in a loss of vehicle control.
- Fuel Hose Detachment – A poorly secured fuel hose can disconnect, causing a fuel leak or engine stall, both of which increase the risk of fire or crash.
With ongoing investigations into tie rod and engine failures, as well as several recalls addressing safety concerns, the 2021 Nissan Rogue has been thrust into the spotlight for potential safety risks. Drivers should stay informed about any updates from Nissan and take immediate action if their vehicle is affected by any recalls or investigations. Safety should always be a top priority, and these investigations aim to ensure that any defects are properly addressed to protect drivers on the road.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issues safety standards that require automobile manufacturers to recall vehicles that have safety-related defects. An important first step to identifying a problem is to keep a database of complaints received from owners. Similar complaints from a number of owners about the same product are usually a good indication that a problem could exist. The NHTSA will review the complaints and, in most cases, open an investigation. If the investigation leads to a recall, the NHTSA will monitor the effectiveness and management of the recall, including the filing of recall notices, communicating with owners regarding the recalls, and tracking the completion rate of each recall. 