Nissan Sentra Sedans Recalled Again to Fix Steering Issues

The driver could lose control of the vehicle if a weak tie rod breaks

Nissan is recalling over 236,000 Sentra sedans from the 2020 through 2022 model years because of a faulty part that could make it more difficult to steer. In serious cases, the driver may lose control of the vehicle.

Some of these vehicles may have already been recalled for a similar issue in 2021, but they will need another repair.

The problem has to do with the vehicle’s tie rod, which is a part that helps connect a vehicle’s steering system to its drive wheels. On the recalled Sentras, the tie rod can bend too easily after experiencing a high-impact force such as hitting a curb, which can cause vibration and an off-center steering wheel. If the tie rod breaks, the driver could lose some steering control.

Fixing the issue will require two visits to the dealership. First, Nissan dealerships will inspect and replace any bent or broken tie rods, free of charge. Then, once redesigned parts are available, dealerships will replace both the left and right tie rods, also free of charge. Nissan says the full repair should be available this winter.

In documents Nissan shared with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the automaker says it is aware of 91 reports of broken or bent tie rods and five crashes that may be related to the issue, but that there have been no reports of injuries.

Vehicles recalled: Nissan Sentra sedans manufactured between Nov. 25, 2019, and March 31, 2022

The problem: The recalled vehicles were built with tie rods that may not be able to withstand some forces. If the tie rod deforms, it may lead to vibration or off-center steering. If it breaks, the driver may lose control of the vehicle.

The fix: Dealerships will replace both left and right tie rods with newly designed parts as soon as they are available, most likely this winter. In the meantime, dealerships will inspect vehicles for damage and replace any broken or bent tie rods. Both repairs are free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact Nissan at 800-867-7669.

NHTSA campaign number: 23V581. Nissan’s own number for this recall is R23B3. This recall replaces and expands recall number 21V461 from 2021, and vehicles that have been previously repaired under 21V461 will need to have the new repair completed.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.

Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry.