2012 Nissan Versa: Recall Alert

By Suzanne Kane

Suzanne Kane

Contributing Writer BIO

Suzanne Kane is an editor at High Gear Media focusing on covering the latest product and other auto-related information for Family Car Guide... More

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4,017 views Feb 10, 2012

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan

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Nissan is conducting a voluntary recall of certain 2012 model year Versa subcompact sedans over concerns about a transmission flaw that could allow the vehicles to be shifted out of park without the driver depressing the brake pedal.

A notice on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) site lists the number of potentially affected units at 36,608. Affected vehicles were manufactured from June 9, 2011 through January 13, 2012.

The problem

The NHTSA bulletin goes on to say that the issue involves certain 2012 Nissan Versa sedans equipped with automatic transmission and may fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 114, “Theft Protection.” Interference between the shifter rod and the shift knob in affected vehicles may cause the vehicles to be able to be shifted out of park without the driver pressing on the brake pedal.

In affected vehicles, the driver may inadvertently shift the gear into drive without first stepping on the brake pedal. This increases the risk of a crash or causing injury to a pedestrian.

Documentation from Nissan indicates that 2012 Nissan sedans with manual transmissions are not affected and also that no other Nissan models are affected.

What Nissan will do

Nissan will notify owners of affected vehicles and dealers will first inspect them and then replace the shifter knob or shifter assembly, as needed, at no charge. The Nissan safety recall campaign is expected to begin on February 20, 2012.

In the meantime, owners of 2012 Nissan Versa sedans with any questions or concerns may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Alternatively, owners of vehicles involved in the campaign may contact the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to http://www.safercar.gov.  Reference the NHTSA campaign ID No. 12V032000.

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