Nissan has initiated a recall for 591 Pathfinder vehicles in South Korea, addressing a potentially dangerous issue involving the hood latch control system. The recall affects Pathfinder models manufactured between November 2013 and September 2016, following reports that the hood could unexpectedly open while driving, obstructing the driver’s view and creating a significant safety hazard.
The recall, which began on April 1, is surprising, especially given that the Nissan Pathfinder is recognized as one of the brand’s flagship SUVs and has consistently received high safety ratings. The discovery of this structural defect has raised consumer concerns about the model’s reliability.
Hazardous Hood Latch Defect Poses Safety Risk
According to South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the recall centers on the secondary hood latch control device. The issue arises when dust or foreign particles accumulate around the lever pivot joint, increasing friction or causing corrosion. As a result, the secondary latch may fail to engage, allowing the hood to remain improperly closed after being checked by the driver.
This malfunction is particularly dangerous because if the hood is not secured correctly, it may open unexpectedly while driving, completely obstructing the driver’s view. The sudden loss of visibility significantly heightens the risk of an accident, making this a serious safety concern. The recall aims to replace the faulty component with an improved hood latch mechanism to prevent such incidents.
Consumers Urged to Participate in Recall for Safety
Nissan urges consumers to bring their vehicles to authorized service centers for inspection and repair, as this defect cannot be easily identified through self-inspection. The company has emphasized the critical importance of addressing the issue to ensure the safety of drivers and other road users.
Nissan has stated that it is acting preemptively to avoid accidents, recalling the affected vehicles before any incidents occur. However, given the potential severity of the defect, consumer confidence in the brand may take a hit, as many are concerned about the vehicle’s safety despite its previous high safety ratings.
A Shock to the Pathfinder’s Reputation for Safety
The Nissan Pathfinder has long been regarded as a stable and practical SUV. It has a strong reputation for safety, including top ratings from the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The discovery of this defect shocked many consumers, as they relied on the Pathfinder’s history of reliability.
Consumers’ online reactions have expressed discomfort and anxiety over the issue, with some questioning the quality control of Japanese vehicles. One netizen commented, “This is the first time I’ve seen such a defect,” while others voiced concerns about the safety of their own vehicles.
Despite Nissan’s efforts to address the issue through the recall, whether the company can fully restore its reputation as a “safe SUV” brand remains to be seen. Consumers are closely watching to see how Nissan handles this situation and what additional measures the company will take to reassure owners and maintain trust in its vehicles.
