Imagine cruising down the interstate in your trusty Nissan Titan XD, a powerful truck built for adventure. Suddenly, the engine sputters and dies, leaving you stranded on the side of the road. This is the unfortunate reality faced by several owners of 2016-2019 Titan XD models, and they're pointing the finger at Nissan and engine maker Cummins in a new class-action lawsuit.
The lawsuit alleges that a critical component, the Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump, is a ticking time bomb in these trucks. According to the plaintiffs, the pump harbors a design flaw – tiny metal parts inside that grind against each other, shedding metal shavings like a rusty cheese grater. These metal shavings then contaminate the entire fuel system, wreaking havoc on the engine. Owners claim this can lead to blocked fuel injectors, significant engine damage, and repair bills exceeding a staggering $10,000.
The lawsuit paints a picture of a mismatch between the fuel pump and its intended environment. The plaintiffs allege the pump was designed for European diesel fuel, which offers superior lubrication properties. This lubrication is crucial for the pump's internal components to function smoothly, like a well-oiled machine. However, the lawsuit claims that U.S. diesel fuel lacks these same lubricating qualities, leaving the pump vulnerable to internal wear and tear.
One of the plaintiffs, Richard Werts, tells a chilling story. His Titan XD, with only around 33,000 miles on the clock, suffered a "catastrophic fuel pump failure" in May 2020. Imagine him cruising down the interstate near Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when his truck sputters and dies, leaving him stranded. Luckily, the repairs were covered under warranty, but Werts feels he deserves more. He's suing for the full purchase price of the truck, arguing he overpaid for a vehicle with a hidden defect.
Another plaintiff, Claude Harris, from Texas, wasn't as fortunate. He purchased a used 2017 Titan XD in May 2023, only to experience the same fuel pump nightmare on a highway. Unfortunately, the vehicle was no longer under warranty, and the dealership delivered a gut punch – a repair estimate of a whopping $22,000! To add insult to injury, Harris' insurance company refused to cover the cost. These are just two examples of the frustration and financial burden faced by the plaintiffs, who believe they were misled by Nissan and Cummins.
The lawsuit seeks to hold these companies accountable. It demands reimbursement for the millions of dollars allegedly obtained through the sale of these trucks with a hidden defect. Additionally, the plaintiffs seek compensation for out-of-pocket losses and repairs, arguing these costs represent the true value they should have paid for trucks with properly functioning fuel pumps. This lawsuit is a cautionary tale for Nissan Titan XD owners and a reminder of the importance of consumer rights.