2024 Nissan Sentra Missing Driveshaft Clip

Certain 2024 Nissan Sentra models may have been manufactured with an improperly assembled driveshaft, potentially leading to safety concerns. This issue could result in an unexpected loss of drive power, increasing the risk of accidents.

The problem was first brought to light in January 2024 when a customer reported their distance sensor warning light illuminating while driving their 2024 Sentra vehicle. Subsequent investigation revealed fluid leaking from under the vehicle at the front left-hand side of the transmission assembly. Upon further inspection, it was discovered that the retaining clip of the left-hand driveshaft was missing. Following this initial report, three additional warranty claims were received for 2024 Sentra vehicles with similar issues, prompting a thorough investigation.

According to the defect report, an installation error during a retrofit activity at the plant may have resulted in the front left-side driveshaft not being fully seated in the continuously variable transmission (CVT) assembly, or having a loose or missing retaining clip. This potential oversight can cause a transmission fluid leak and ultimately lead to a loss of drive power.

Under certain circumstances, there is a risk that the driveshaft spline may fail to engage the differential gear in the CVT, resulting in a sudden loss of motive power without prior warning. Additionally, this condition could lead to transmission fluid leakage, reduced transmission fluid pressure, potential transmission jerking or hesitation, and the illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).

Owners of affected vehicles will receive notifications instructing them to visit their authorized Nissan dealerships for a thorough front left driveshaft inspection. If during inspection, it is determined that the driveshaft is correctly installed, no further action will be required. However, if the driveshaft is found to be not fully seated, dealerships will promptly replace both the driveshaft and CVT assembly, ensuring the safety and performance of the vehicle.

This recall is identified by Nissan as PMA37, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned the campaign number 24V-304.