Nissan Rogue Fuel Pump Recall: Critical Information, Your Immediate Steps, and In-Depth Guide

MAJOR RECALL ALERT: Millions of Nissan Rogue and Rogue Sport vehicles manufactured between 2017 and 2021 are subject to a critical safety recall due to defective low-pressure fuel pumps. These faulty pumps, primarily supplied by Denso, can fail unexpectedly while driving, leading to a complete engine stall with no warning. This drastically increases the risk of a serious accident. Nissan dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump module FREE OF CHARGE. If you own or drive one of these popular SUVs, identifying your vehicle's status and acting immediately is paramount for your safety.

Understanding the Core Problem: The Faulty Fuel Pump and Its Dangers

At the heart of this widespread recall lies a manufacturing defect within the low-pressure fuel pump itself, specifically within its internal components. The primary culprit is the fuel pump impeller. This plastic component, responsible for drawing fuel from the tank and pushing it towards the engine, was improperly manufactured. Over time, exposure to the fuel and its chemical composition causes the impeller to absorb excessive amounts of fuel. This absorption leads to critical issues:

  • Swelling and Deformation: The absorbed fuel causes the impeller to swell beyond its intended size and shape.
  • Excessive Surface Friction: The swollen impeller begins to rub excessively against its surrounding pump housing.
  • Cracking and Breaking: This constant, abnormal friction generates significant heat and stress, eventually causing the impeller to crack or even break apart entirely.
  • Catastrophic Pump Failure: When the impeller deforms, cracks, or breaks, the fuel pump loses its ability to generate the necessary fuel pressure. The result is an abrupt cessation of fuel flow to the engine.

The Grave Risk: Sudden Engine Stall and Loss of Control

The failure of this low-pressure fuel pump isn't like a gradual loss of power. It typically happens without any prior warning. One moment the engine is running normally, the next it completely shuts down. This sudden engine stall creates an extremely dangerous situation:

  1. Instant Loss of Power Steering: Modern vehicles rely on engine-driven power steering pumps. When the engine stalls, power steering assistance vanishes immediately, making the steering wheel extremely difficult to turn, especially at lower speeds or while maneuvering. This drastically limits your ability to steer and avoid obstacles.
  2. Instant Loss of Power Braking: While your standard hydraulic brakes will still function, the power brake booster relies on engine vacuum. Engine stall eliminates this vacuum almost instantly. You will still be able to brake, but it will require significantly more foot pressure and distance to achieve effective stopping power. Panic situations exacerbate this problem.
  3. Loss of Engine Power: All motive power is gone. You cannot accelerate to avoid a hazard, merge safely, or maintain speed, especially on highways or inclines. Coasting to a stop is the only option, placing you at the mercy of surrounding traffic.
  4. Vulnerability: A stalled vehicle, potentially blocking a lane or stranded in traffic, becomes a significant hazard. The risk of being rear-ended by unsuspecting drivers at high speed is dramatically increased. This situation is particularly perilous on high-speed roads like highways, during busy commutes, in inclement weather, or when navigating intersections.

Recall Scope and Affected Nissan Rogue Models: Millions at Risk

Nissan's recall (identified officially by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as NHTSA Recall 20V-744) encompasses a vast number of vehicles manufactured over a five-year period. Here is a detailed breakdown of the impacted Nissan Rogue and Rogue Sport models:

  • 2017 Nissan Rogue
  • 2018 Nissan Rogue
  • 2019 Nissan Rogue
  • 2020 Nissan Rogue
  • 2021 Nissan Rogue
  • 2017 Nissan Rogue Sport (Also sold as the Qashqai in some markets)
  • 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • 2019 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport

Critical Note: While Nissan Rogues produced after approximately January 6, 2021, began receiving fuel pumps manufactured to a corrected design less susceptible to the defect, any Rogue or Rogue Sport from the 2017-2021 model years could potentially have the defective pump installed. Verifying your specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the only reliable way to know if your vehicle needs the repair. This recall isn't limited solely to Rogues; numerous other Nissan and Infiniti models used the same problematic Denso pumps, but the Rogue platform represents a massive portion of the affected vehicles.

Identifying Symptoms: Warning Signs of an Impending Fuel Pump Failure

While the final failure causing a complete stall often occurs suddenly, some vehicles may exhibit warning signs in the days or weeks before the pump fails entirely. Being vigilant about these symptoms is crucial. If you experience any of the following issues with your 2017-2021 Nissan Rogue or Rogue Sport, treat it as an urgent warning and avoid driving the vehicle if possible until you can have it inspected:

  • Engine Hesitation or Stumbling During Acceleration: The engine might momentarily lose power or feel like it's "bucking" when you press the gas pedal, particularly under load or at higher speeds/rpms. This is often one of the earliest signs.
  • Rough Idle or Random RPM Fluctuations: The engine may idle roughly, shaking noticeably, or the tachometer needle might dip or surge erratically while the vehicle is stationary.
  • Difficulty Starting the Engine: You might experience extended cranking times (the engine turning over for several seconds before starting), or the engine may require multiple attempts to start. In severe cases, it may crank but fail to start at all.
  • Noticeable Loss of Engine Power: The vehicle feels significantly down on power, struggles to maintain speed, especially going uphill or when carrying passengers/cargo, or exhibits unusually sluggish acceleration.
  • Check Engine Light Illuminated (Possibly with Reduced Power Mode): The Check Engine Light (CEL/MIL) will likely illuminate as the engine computer detects irregularities in the fuel system. In some cases, this might trigger a "Reduced Engine Power" or "Fail-Safe" mode, severely limiting the vehicle's performance to protect itself.
  • Engine Stall at Low Speeds: While complete stalls can happen anywhere, instances of the engine dying while idling at a stoplight, in drive-thrus, or during low-speed maneuvers warrant immediate attention.

DO NOT IGNORE THESE SYMPTOMS. THEY ARE STRONG INDICATORS OF THE RECALL-RELATED DEFECT AND PRECURSORS TO A COMPLETE STALL.

Urgent Action Step: Checking Your Nissan Rogue's Recall Status (VIN Lookup)

The most critical step you can take right now is to determine if your specific Nissan Rogue or Rogue Sport requires this fuel pump replacement recall repair. Nissan should have mailed notification letters to registered owners of affected vehicles in batches starting in early 2021. However, relying solely on receiving a letter is risky. You must proactively check using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Here’s how:

  1. Use Nissan's Official Recall Lookup Tool: The primary and most reliable source is Nissan's dedicated recall website. Go directly to:
    **[https://www.nissanusa.com/recalls-vin](https://www.nissanusa.com/recalls-vin)**
    Enter your full 17-digit VIN precisely as it appears on your vehicle (typically found on the driver's side dashboard visible through the windshield, or on your registration/insurance documents). The tool will immediately list all open safety recalls applicable to your VIN, including the fuel pump recall.
  2. Use the NHTSA SaferCar.gov Website: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration maintains a comprehensive database. Visit:
    **[https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls)**
    Enter your VIN and click "Search." This site aggregates recall information from all manufacturers and confirms any open recalls filed with the government.
  3. Call Your Local Authorized Nissan Dealer: Provide them with your VIN over the phone. Their service department can quickly access the Nissan system to confirm any open recalls on your specific vehicle. Ensure they check for SAFETY RECALL PC630 (Nissan's internal campaign number for the fuel pump issue) or NHTSA 20V-744.
  4. Call Nissan Customer Service: Nissan's central customer service line (1-800-647-7261) can also verify recall status using your VIN.

THIS VIN CHECK IS NON-NEGOTIABLE. EVEN IF YOU BOUGHT THE VEHICLE USED OR HAVE HAD RECALLS FIXED BEFORE, YOU MUST CONFIRM THIS SPECIFIC RECALL STATUS FOR YOUR SAFETY.

What to Do If Your Rogue Is Affected: The Recall Repair Process

If your VIN check confirms that your Nissan Rogue or Rogue Sport has an open recall for the low-pressure fuel pump (PC630 / 20V-744), here’s exactly what happens next:

  1. Schedule an Appointment IMMEDIATELY: Contact your preferred authorized Nissan dealership's Service Department. DO NOT DELAY. This is not a recall you can safely postpone. Clearly state that you are calling to schedule the recall repair for "Nissan Safety Recall PC630 – Fuel Pump Replacement."
  2. Preparation: While extensive preparation isn't needed, ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel (a quarter tank or more is fine). Remove valuable personal items from the cabin and trunk as a standard precaution.
  3. The Repair Procedure:
    • Parts Availability: Upon arrival, confirm with the service advisor that the dealer has the correct replacement fuel pump module part in stock. Due to the scale of this recall, parts availability has occasionally been a constraint, though supply chains have improved significantly. If parts are not immediately available, the dealer will place an order and should notify you when they arrive. If experiencing symptoms, stress the urgency.
    • The Repair Work: Technicians will replace the entire low-pressure fuel pump module inside the fuel tank. This involves safely draining or removing fuel (minimal fuel wastage might occur), lowering the fuel tank, removing the old pump assembly, and installing the new, corrected pump module. The new pump features an impeller redesigned with different materials that are resistant to swelling and deformation.
    • Quality Control: Post-installation, technicians will test for leaks and verify proper fuel system operation and pressure. They should also update Nissan's database to reflect that your recall is closed. Important: Ensure they also perform any required software updates associated with the recall – this was sometimes necessary for communication between the new pump and the engine control unit.
  4. Time Required: While the procedure itself typically takes 3-4 hours for a qualified technician, plan on your vehicle being at the dealership for a significant portion of the day (e.g., morning drop-off with afternoon pickup). Dealers factor in check-in/check-out processes, potential pre-inspection diagnostics required by the recall procedure, technician scheduling, and quality checks.
  5. COST: This safety recall repair is performed FREE OF CHARGE. There should be no charge for parts, labor, or diagnostics related to this specific recall. If a dealer attempts to charge you, contact Nissan Customer Service immediately (1-800-647-7261). Do not pay for this repair.
  6. Documentation: You will receive a detailed repair order outlining the work performed. Keep this document with your vehicle records permanently. It serves as proof that this critical safety recall was performed correctly.
  7. Software Updates: As noted, ensure the dealer checks and installs any related engine control software updates Nissan may have issued concurrently with the pump replacement. This is part of the complete repair.

If Your Vehicle Exhibits Symptoms BEFORE the Repair

EXTREME CAUTION IS REQUIRED. If your Nissan Rogue or Rogue Sport is part of the recall and is already showing symptoms described earlier, driving it becomes exceptionally dangerous. Here's what to do:

  1. Stop Driving: Avoid driving the vehicle if at all possible.
  2. Contact Your Nissan Dealer IMMEDIATELY: Explain the symptoms clearly and state your vehicle has an open fuel pump recall (PC630/20V-744). Request an urgent appointment. Due to the active safety risk associated with the symptoms, they should prioritize your repair. Insist on it.
  3. Request Towing: If the vehicle feels unsafe to drive (severe hesitation, recent stall episodes), if the Check Engine Light is flashing (indicating imminent catalyst damage), or if attempting to drive to the dealer poses a significant risk (e.g., highway driving required), request Nissan provide FREE towing to the dealership. Nissan has provisions for towing vehicles deemed unsafe due to an open recall, especially when symptoms are present. Be polite but firm about the hazard and your inability to safely drive the vehicle. Document this request.
  4. Alternative Transportation: If you require immediate transportation and the dealership cannot accommodate providing a loaner while waiting for the repair or awaiting parts, discuss options with Nissan Customer Service. While not guaranteed, they may offer limited assistance given the active safety hazard.

Post-Repair Expectations and Monitoring

Once the new, corrected fuel pump module is installed correctly, the specific risk associated with the Denso impeller defect should be eliminated.

  1. Normal Operation: Your Rogue should return to normal engine performance, starting, and drivability. Symptoms related to the recall defect should cease.
  2. Check Engine Light: If the Check Engine Light was previously illuminated due to the failing pump, it might take a few drive cycles after the repair for it to reset automatically. If it stays on or comes back on with a new issue, contact the dealer immediately.
  3. Future Fuel Pump Issues: Like any mechanical component, the replacement fuel pump (or others in the vehicle) could potentially experience unrelated failures far in the future due to wear and tear or other causes not related to this manufacturing defect. The recall specifically addresses the known manufacturing flaw in the original pumps.
  4. Confirmation: You should receive proof of completion paperwork. Ensure Nissan's owner portal (NissanConnect Services) also updates to reflect the closed recall if you use it.
  5. Vigilance: While the recall defect is fixed, it's always wise to remain attentive to your vehicle's overall health. Report any unusual performance changes to a mechanic promptly, regardless of their apparent cause.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Nissan Rogue Fuel Pump Recall

  • Q: My Rogue hasn't had any problems. Do I really need this recall repair?
    A: YES, ABSOLUTELY. The failure typically happens suddenly without warning. Driving with the defective pump poses an ongoing risk of a dangerous engine stall. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
  • Q: I already paid for a fuel pump replacement out of pocket after experiencing a stall. Can I get reimbursed?
    A: Potentially, yes. If you had a fuel pump failure and repair performed before the recall notice specifically due to the symptoms related to this defect within a timeframe Nissan considers reasonable, you might be eligible for reimbursement. You will need detailed repair records/receipts showing the diagnosis and parts replaced. Contact Nissan Customer Service (1-800-647-7261) immediately to initiate a reimbursement request. The window for reimbursement claims may have deadlines; act promptly.
  • Q: How long does the recall repair take?
    A: The physical repair itself typically takes 3-4 hours. However, plan for the vehicle to be at the dealership for the better part of a day (e.g., morning drop-off, afternoon pickup). This accounts for check-in, diagnostics (if part of the recall procedure), the repair, quality checks, software updates if needed, and check-out.
  • Q: Will a rental car be provided while my Rogue is being repaired?
    A: Nissan typically does not automatically provide loaner vehicles for recall repairs unless mandated under specific circumstances or exceptional delays. However: If your vehicle exhibits active symptoms making it unsafe to drive before the repair, insist on Nissan arranging and covering towing to the dealer. Discuss alternative transportation needs with the dealer or Nissan Customer Service, especially if parts are delayed or the repair itself will take more than one full day.
  • Q: How can I be sure they installed the fixed fuel pump?
    A: Request the part number of the installed pump when picking up your vehicle. The defective Denso pumps were primarily part number 23170-JA00A among others. The replacement pump should have a new Nissan part number reflecting the corrected design. Your detailed repair invoice should list the replacement part number used. If possible, ask to see the old pump; while they retain it for warranty claims, you might observe the date/lot markings.
  • Q: I drive an Infiniti. Is my vehicle affected?
    A: While primarily focused on Rogue and Rogue Sport, the same defective Denso low-pressure fuel pumps were used in a wide range of Nissan and Infiniti models and years (e.g., Nissan Altima, Sentra, Titan, Pathfinder; Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX80, QX50). You MUST check your specific Infiniti or other Nissan VIN using Nissan's lookup or NHTSA's site.
  • Q: Is the new pump guaranteed forever?
    A: The repair for the recall is guaranteed against defects in parts and workmanship per Nissan's recall repair warranty terms (often 12 months or more depending on location and policy, covering that specific repair). The replacement pump itself is subject to Nissan's standard New Vehicle Limited Warranty or Certified Pre-Owned warranty based on your vehicle's age and mileage. It is designed to last the life of the vehicle under normal conditions, but no part is failure-proof forever due to wear and tear.
  • Q: Should I report any issues after the repair?
    A: Yes. If you experience persistent problems you believe are related to the recall repair (e.g., new hesitation, fuel leaks, Check Engine Lights), contact the servicing dealership immediately. Additionally, report the issue to the NHTSA SaferCar.gov website. This helps the NHTSA monitor the effectiveness of the recall repair.

Beyond the Rogue: Wider Impact and Industry Context

The Nissan Rogue fuel pump recall, while massive, is part of a much larger global issue. The same defective low-pressure fuel pumps, primarily manufactured by Denso, were installed in millions of vehicles across numerous automakers, including but not limited to Toyota, Honda, Subaru, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Ford, and General Motors vehicles. This underscores the complexity of modern automotive supply chains and how a single supplier component flaw can ripple across the entire industry. It resulted in one of the largest automotive recall events in history, spanning hundreds of recalls globally and affecting tens of millions of vehicles.

For Nissan owners specifically, several other models beyond the Rogue/Rogue Sport were impacted by recalls for these same Denso fuel pumps. Always verify recalls for your specific vehicle using your VIN, regardless of the model.

NHTSA's Role: Overseeing Recalls and Ensuring Compliance

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plays a pivotal role in this and every vehicle recall:

  1. Investigation: NHTSA investigates defect petitions and field reports from consumers regarding potential safety issues.
  2. Recall Mandate: If a defect posing an unreasonable safety risk is confirmed, NHTSA requires the manufacturer to initiate a recall. Manufacturers can also voluntarily recall vehicles if they identify a safety defect.
  3. Oversight: NHTSA monitors the recall process to ensure manufacturers notify owners properly and perform adequate repairs efficiently.
  4. Public Database: They provide the invaluable SaferCar.gov website for consumers to check for recalls using their VIN and file vehicle safety complaints (Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236).
  5. Enforcement: NHTSA has the authority to impose fines on manufacturers for violations of safety regulations or inadequate execution of recalls.

Legal Rights and Resources for Nissan Rogue Owners

  1. Free Repair: You have the absolute right to have this safety defect repaired at no cost to you. Document everything related to the recall and repair.
  2. Reporting Problems: If you experience a stall incident (before OR after the recall repair), or if you feel a dealership is not handling the recall appropriately, report it to:
    • NHTSA: [https://www.nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem#vehicle](https://www.nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem#vehicle) or call 1-888-327-4236. This is crucial for safety monitoring.
    • Nissan Customer Service: 1-800-647-7261. Escalate unresolved issues.
  3. Injury Accidents: If you were involved in an accident that you believe was caused or contributed to by the fuel pump failure defect leading to a stall, seek legal counsel experienced in product liability and automotive defects.
  4. Consumer Protection Laws: Recalls fall under the umbrella of federal vehicle safety laws designed to protect consumers.

The Bottom Line: Safety First

The Nissan Rogue fuel pump recall (NHTSA 20V-744 / Nissan PC630) addresses a severe and potentially catastrophic safety defect affecting millions of popular SUVs. If you own or drive a Nissan Rogue or Rogue Sport model from 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, or 2021, your immediate action is non-negotiable:

  1. CHECK YOUR VIN RIGHT NOW. Use Nissan's official recall page or NHTSA SaferCar.gov.
  2. IF AFFECTED, SCHEDULE THE FREE REPAIR IMMEDIATELY. Do not postpone. Contact your Nissan dealer.
  3. IF EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS, DO NOT DRIVE. REQUEST TOWING. Insist on assistance due to the safety hazard.
  4. KEEP PERMANENT RECORDS of your recall confirmation and repair completion.

Stalling at highway speeds is a terrifying and dangerous reality with these defective fuel pumps. Nissan acknowledged the defect. They have the fix available free of charge. Taking these simple steps promptly could prevent a serious accident and save lives. Ensure your Nissan Rogue gets this essential safety repair done without delay. Share this information with anyone you know who drives one of these vehicles – your vigilance promotes safer roads for everyone.

Back to blog