Nissan ordered to speed up recall under new Transport Canada powers

Transport Canada has invoked a never-before-used capacity to force Nissan Canada to immediately inform those who own a defect that could cause dangerous fuel leaks.

The issue is found in X-Trail SUVs from the 2005 and 2006 model years, and involves a flaw within the fuel reservoir filler pipe coating that can result in fuel leaks if left unrepaired.

Nissan recalled the vehicles in 2014, but Transport Canada said it’s concerned the company isn’t acting fast enough to repair them.

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“Ordering Nissan to notify vehicle those who own this safety issue wasn’t taken lightly at Transport Canada,” Transport Minister Marc Garneau said in a statement.

“I remain very concerned that Nissan isn’t doing enough to see affected those who own this important recall.”

The transport minister was granted new powers this past year that permit him to buy manufacturers to see vehicle owners of a safety issue. This marks the very first time this power, referred to as a subsequent notice order, has been used.

Nissan must take care of the costs of notifying owners, and will be required to send Transport Canada quarterly progress reports around the recall.

Nissan Canada said hello has received an order and will still reach out to its customers.

“Nissan will continue to work collaboratively with Transport Canada, and will undertake the necessary actions to talk with owners who’ve not taken care of immediately date, and finish repairs on all outstanding vehicles,” spokesman Didier Marsaud said within an email.

He added there have been no reported incidents or injuries associated with the defect.

kowram@nationalpost.com

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