Nissan recalls nearly one million vehicles for airbag problem

Nissan is recalling nearly one million vehicles for a problem with the airbags. The occupant classification system (OCS) may incorrectly think that the passenger seat is empty when it is occupied by an adult, failing to activate the airbag in a collision.

Cars affected include the 2013-2014 Leaf, Altima, Pathfinder and Sentra, as well as the 2013 NV200, 2013 JX35, 2014 QX60 and the 2014 Q50.

Recall documents say that due to the sensitivity of the OCS software calibration, the system may not sense a passenger. That combined with high-engine vibration at idle when the seat is empty and then becomes occupied, or unusual occupant seating postures, can cause the system to fail. If the car crashes during this time, the airbag won't deploy.

Nissan will notify owners, and dealerships will fix the OCS software free of charge. The recall should begin in mid-April.

Concerned owners can call Nissan at (800) 647-7261. Drivers can also contact NHTSA at (888) 327-4236 or go to safercar.gov.

By Jake Lingeman