The concept of fake news is very much in the public eye at present, but consumers of online media also need to be aware of the issue of recycled news, a good example of which is currently doing the rounds concerning chassis problems on Nissan Navaras.

The UK news websites are currently awash with stories of Nissan 4x4s of a certain age "snapping” in half and say that Nissan is under pressure to recall thousands of models, with the implication that there is some kind of conspiracy to cover the issue up. 

It is true that there is an issue with the chassis on Nissan Navara D40s manufactured in Spain between 2005 to 2008 and that there are reports about issues on some later models. The problem is generally on the passenger side, outside of the chassis leg, just behind the forward tub mounting point. It initially takes the form of corrosion but can develop into a crack with serious consequences if not addressed. It is also a major DOE test failure issue. 

Dramatic quotes and pictures support the stories, but what many websites fail to mention is that this is an issue that has been known about for two years. Last spring Nissan Ireland announced it was working directly with affected Navara owners and offering them upgrade or buy back options or a free of charge repair.

The problem is potentially serious, but is not as widespread as news sites would have you believe. Many Navara owners in Ireland have already had their issues resolved, although some have not been totally satisfied with the process.

Owners who are not aware of the issue are recommended to take their vehicle for inspection at a Nissan dealer. It is also wise for Independent garages servicing or repairing Navaras or Pathfinders to inspect the chassis and report back to their customers.