The Nissan Altima, Rogue, and the Infiniti QX50/QX55 are models that have or had the complex variable-compression engine with bearings that could fail. Dealers will inspect the engines, and in cases where it's necessary, they will replace the engine for free.

Nissan said in its announcement that a failed engine can lead to a “loss of motive power" and increase the risk of a crash.

Nissan is recalling more than 480,000 vehicles across the U.S. and Canada because of potential manufacturing defects that could cause engine failure.