Nissan Canada recalls 13,000 vehicles over potential ignition switch problem

Nissan Canada is recalling 13,223 vehicles because a problem with the ignition switch could cause the vehicle’s engine to shut off while driving. 

The automaker is asking drivers to immediately remove all objects, such as additional keys and key chains, from the ignition key ring in an effort to lessen the chances of problems.

The Transport Canada website notice disclosing the problem echoes some of the language used by General Motors in describing the issue surrounding its ignition switch recall crisis. Transport Canada did not say whether the Nissan problem has led to any crashes, injuries or fatalities. 

Nissan Canada could not be reached for comment.

On certain vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition system, a spring in the ignition switch could wear and break, allowing the ignition key to inadvertently move from the “on” position to the “accessory” (ACC) position while driving, says a post on Transport Canada’s website. If that happens, it could cause the engine to shut off and the airbag system to lose power. The loss of power, and change in steering and brake forces could increase the risk of a crash, causing injury and/or damage to property. Additionally, in the event of a crash, the airbags might not function. 

Nissan Frontier mid-size pickups, the Micra and Versa Note from the 2017 and 2018 model years are affected. The Nissan Sentra and NV200, NV1500, NV2500 and NV3500 commercial vehicles from the 2017 model year are affected as well.

Dealers will inspect the lot number of the ignition switches and replace it with a new one if it necessary.