The US National Highway Transportation Safety Administration officials have opened an investigation into more than 360,000 Nissan cars over unwanted acceleration issues.
Nissan, the automaker, is being investigated by the US National Highway Transportation Safety Administration officials for unintended acceleration in some of its sedan models. The probe was initiated after four complaints were lodged regarding a carpet trim cover which prevented drivers from accessing the brakes and caused unwanted accelerations.
The NHTSA investigation was announced Saturday, involving more than 360,000 Nisan cars. The affected models include Nissan Versa, Versa Sedan and Versa Note manufactured between 2012 and 2014. In one of the complaints filed, the driver said the trim panel trapped the foot so hard that it required using the right hand to grab the leg and pull it out, according to a Detroit News report.
"I attempted to remove my foot from the gas pedal, but could not, because my foot was stuck," said another complainant on the website, Reuters reported. "The plastic piece that covers the center console extends around to just next to the gas pedal... The corner of that plastic panel wedged between the sole and leather upper of my work boots, preventing me from taking my foot off the gas pedal."
The preliminary investigation could lead to a recall if the NHTSA officials determine the problem requires a safety fix. Nissan has agreed to fully co-operate with the investigation.
The NHTSA is investigating a similar case with Ford. The car maker recalled more than 82,000 all-weather floor mats sold for vehicles from 2006-2011 due to potential interference with accelerator pedals.
Similarly, Toyota was forced to recall millions of vehicles for unintended acceleration that led to four deaths, Detroit News added.
