NHTSA Complaint #11683015 — 2015 NISSAN ROGUE

Component/System Failed: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system — specifically the heater door actuator. Description of Problem: In November 2023, I purchased a 2015 Nissan Rogue from Nissan of Merrimack Valley. By January 2024, I began experiencing major heating issues. My independent mechanic confirmed that the heater door actuator had been glued to the HVAC box — a clear concealment of a defect instead of a proper repair. The defective component and photo evidence are available for inspection.The actuator is a known weak point in Nissan Rogue models, and when it fails, the only recommended solution is to replace the entire HVAC box, costing thousands of dollars. This is a design flaw, as a relatively small actuator failure should not require full replacement of the HVAC assembly. Safety Risk: The defective actuator compromises the heating and defrosting functions. During cold weather, the vehicle cannot properly defrost the windshield, which creates a serious visibility hazard and directly endangers driver and passenger safety. In winter conditions, this defect can increase the risk of collisions due to impaired visibility. Inspection by Dealer/Manufacturer/Others: Yes. I contacted the selling dealership (Nissan of Merrimack Valley) multiple times over a three-month period, including calls and in-person visits to a manager, Marc A. Despite the clear evidence, the dealership refused accountability, stating they cannot assist. Nissan corporate has not yet provided resolution. Summary: This is a serious safety concern. The heater door actuator in the Nissan Rogue is poorly designed and prone to failure. Nissan must be held accountable for this design defect that puts lives at risk by impairing safe windshield defrosting in cold climates. I strongly urge NHTSA to investigate this issue and push Nissan to address it, either through a recall or a service campaign, to ensure driver and passenger safety.