What the source says
The documented condition
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Altima vehicles. The tie rod ball joint fastener was not tightened properly, which could result in the tie rod ball joint detaching from the steering knuckle.
Consequence identified by NHTSA
A detached tie rod ball joint can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.
Campaign 21V138000; report received 2021-03-04. Source checked 2026-10-18.
Source component: STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
Compare the pattern
Symptoms and vehicle scope
Condition described by NHTSA
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Altima vehicles. The tie rod ball joint fastener was not tightened properly, which could result in the tie rod ball joint detaching from the steering knuckle.
Vehicles and limits
- NHTSA model names: ALTIMA. Model years: 2020, 2021.
- NHTSA campaign 21V138000
- The complete campaign lists 2,407 potentially affected units across all listed vehicles.
- A make, model and year match does not establish VIN eligibility.
Manufacturer position
What the official procedure directs
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the left and right-side tie rod ball joint fasteners, or install new fasteners as necessary, free of charge. The began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7769. Nissan's number for this recall is PC795.
Mileage context
Campaign 21V138000 is based on the recalled vehicle population and VIN, not a published mileage threshold. Mileage alone cannot confirm or exclude it.
Original evidence
Open the documents behind this record.
NHTSA safety recall · 21V138000 · 2021-03-04
NHTSA campaign 21V138000
Official component, defect, consequence and remedy; checked 2026-10-18.
Repair paths and safe checks
Match the action to the evidence.
Official recall remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the left and right-side tie rod ball joint fasteners, or install new fasteners as necessary, free of charge. The began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7769. Nissan's number for this recall is PC795.
Confirm VIN eligibility and current remedy instructions with the manufacturer.
Check the complete VIN
Check the 17-character VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls and ask the manufacturer whether this campaign remains open for the vehicle.
The model-year list is not proof that an individual vehicle is affected.
Record reviewed in the source on 2026-10-18. Confirm the current document and VIN instructions before arranging work.
How we check a problem · All records for the 2021 Nissan Altima