Nissan Recalls Altimas Over Hood Problem
» Posted August 19, 2020 • Resources | Share This Post
Nissan is recalling some 1.8 million vehicles because of a hood problem that could pose a big problem for drivers of those cars and anyone else on the road nearby.
The company recently told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the recalled cars’ hoods could open unexpectedly. That is because of a faulty hood latch that Nissan still does not know how to fix.
“Over time, build-up caused by driving with the primary hood latch disengaged allows excessive, corrosive contaminants to contact the hood latch assembly, Nissan said in a notice filed with NHTSA. “This build-up, combined with a lack of proper inspection and maintenance of the secondary hood latch, can create mechanical binding that could cause the secondary hood latch to remain in the open position after it has been disengaged. In such cases, if the primary hood latch is inadvertently released (ex. while refueling) or the hood is not closed properly after engine service, the secondary hood latch may not hold the hood closed as designed while the vehicle is in motion.”
“If this condition occurs, the hood may open without warning and obstruct the driver’s forward view, increasing the risk of crash,” the company said.
The recall covers certain 2013-2018 Nissan Altimas. Recalled 2013-2015 Altimas already had their hood latches repaired, but now need to be brought in for another fix, according to Consumer Reports.
The problem is that Nissan still has not come up with a solution. The company told owners of recalled vehicles that it is “preparing a remedy,” which Nissan hopes will be ready by the middle of next year.
Legal Rights for California Car Owners
The Nissan hood snafu and the company’s inability to fix an issue that could cause car accidents highlights the serious risk posed by defective vehicles. Fortunately, car owners in California have some important protections under the state’s lemon law.
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act requires car manufacturers to perform various repairs on cars while they are under warranty and to buy back vehicles they are unwilling or unable to fix. Although the manufacturer can offer to replace the car instead, it is up to the owner to decide whether to accept this alternative arrangement.
There is no set number of repair requests or attempts that must be made in order for the buyback requirement to kick in. A California lemon law lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
Speak With a California Lemon Law Lawyer
If you are feeling stuck with a lemon in the Golden State, it is imperative to seek the assistance of a seasoned California lemon law attorney.
At the Bickel Law Firm, California lemon law attorney Brian Bickel and his team have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases in Southern California and across the state. We work tirelessly to get the people we represent the compensation they deserve.
Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney today.
