Nissan recalls 360,379 Pathfinders over hood latch issue

Nissan is recalling 360,379vehicles worldwide after it discovered a defect that could cause the hoods of vehicles to open without warning, increasing the risk of a collision, Gasgoo reported on June 29.

The vehicles affected by this recall are the 2013-2016 Nissan Pathfinder midsize crossovers.Debris buildup in the vehicle's bell crank lever pivot joint may cause the hood assist latch to remain in the open position.

Nissan said the recall includes 322,671 vehicles from the U.S. market, 37,115 vehicles from the Canadian market, and 593 vehicles from the South Korean market.

The secondary latch acts as a backup to keep the vehicle hood closed if the primary latch is accidentally released or not closed properly.If the defect occurs, it could cause the hood to open while driving and obstruct the driver's view.

Nissan said in a June 13 report to the U.S. Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) that owners who did not "properly inspect and maintain" crankset assemblies are at risk of experiencing the defect.The buildup of debris can also damage the component's anti-corrosion coating.

Nissan said on June 28 that it had not received any accident reports related to the defect, but that the company had received an injury charge.

Nissan has notified U.S. dealers on June 24 and will start notifying owners on June 30, and owner notifications will include instructions on how to inspect the crank assembly.Regulators in Canada have been notified, and regulators in South Korea will soon be notified.Nissan hasn't announced plans for a fix, but the company said plans are "under development."