Nissan has announced that they are recalling about 360,000 first-generation Murano crossovers because of a defect that can cause an engine stall. Apparently, the material used for the Murano’s air-intake ducts is prematurely aging and shrinking, leading to a risk of separation in the system. That separation can cause an engine stall if the debris gets sucked in.
The NHTSA says that can increase the risk of a crash if this happened at an inopportune moment. All U.S. models between 2003 and 2007 are affected.
Anyone with one of those models should contact a Nissan service center to arrange for a free inspection and repair. Customers can also call Nissan directly at 1-800-647-7261. The parts for the recall should be available by July 6, when the recall officially begins.
This is just one among the string of recalls for the Japanese-built first-generation Nissan Murano. Earlier recalls for the SUV involved seat belts, fuel tanks and electrical problems.