NHTSA complaint #11693772

Owner complaint summary

During a recent trip I noticed a "fluttering/rattling" noise coming from the top of the windshield of our 2021 Nissan Rogue Platinum. The noise was very noticeable at interstate highway speed and on rougher road surfaces. While looking for the source of noise I found staining on the driver side headliner and interior front pillar garnish. Took Rogue to dealer and was told that the seal for the attachment clips for the roof rack were leaking into the interior. Leakage had damaged headliner and gotten into the airbag. The roof racks would have to be removed and sealed and the entire headliner, front pillar garnish, and the airbag replaced. The total repair would cost approximately $4,000.00. Since the Rogue was 45 months old with 20,500 miles it was out of warranty due to its age. The dealer told me that I would be responsible for the cost to repair it since it was out of warranty. I contacted Nissan Consumer Affairs to see if they would cover the cost since the leak was caused by a design and/or manufacturing defect. Nissan agreed to pay 90% of the repair but I would be responsible for the remaining 10% (approximately $400.00). I told them this was unacceptable and that Nissan should be responsible for the entire cost of the repair. Nissan has refused my requests to cover the full cost of repair. An internet search revealed that Nissan was aware of the defect and had issued a Service Bulletin (NTB21-097, dated 10/20/21), which was a few months before we purchased the vehicle. Since the leak can allow water to damage the airbag it is a serious safety issue. The airbag may not deploy properly during an accident or could suddenly deploy for no reason and cause a crash. Nissan should take full responsibility and pay the full amount for the repair since it is a known design and/or manufacturing defect. Nissan should issue a recall for affected vehicles.