2021 Nissan Rogue Sport Safety Report

2021 Nissan Rogue Sport: High crash ratings, but concerning forward collision avoidance and engine complaints.

35Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
7Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
5Injuries
Most reported components: Forward Collision Avoidance (5)Engine (4)Service Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance (4)Unknown Or Other (4)Electrical System (3)Service Brakes (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Electrical System,Vehicle Speed Control,Forward Collision Avoidance (1)Steering,Unknown Or Other,Engine (1)Structure,Visibility/Wiper (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport

The 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 35 total complaints, including 7 crashes, 1 fire, and 5 injuries, there are specific areas of concern. A significant number of complaints, 5 in total, are related to the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' system, with multiple reports of false activations leading to sudden, unintended braking, which can increase the risk of a crash. The 'ENGINE' component also accounts for 4 complaints, including instances of deceleration, sputtering, and even engine failure, as well as overheating issues due to radiator fan failure. Recall history for the 2021 Rogue Sport includes three distinct campaigns. One recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V093000) addresses a potential issue with the jackknife style ignition key, where it could collapse and inadvertently shut off the vehicle while driving. Another recall targets the front seat belt automatic locking retractors, which may deactivate early, reducing protection in a crash. The third recall concerns the liftgate hinges, which could separate in a rear-end crash, compromising protection. These recalls highlight manufacturing defects that could directly impact occupant safety. Despite the high crash test scores, the recurring complaints about the forward collision avoidance system's erratic behavior and engine-related issues suggest potential real-world safety risks that may not be fully captured by controlled crash tests. The single fire incident reported is also a serious concern. Prospective buyers should be aware of these specific issues and ensure all recall repairs have been completed.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Forward Collision Avoidance (Fca) False Activation
The Forward Collision Avoidance system frequently activates without reason, causing sudden and unintended braking, increasing crash risk.
High Common unknown miles
Engine Deceleration/Failure
Vehicles experience sudden deceleration, sputtering, or complete engine failure, sometimes with check engine lights.
High Occasional unknown miles
Radiator Fan Failure/Overheating
The radiator fan fails, leading to air conditioning malfunction at low speeds and risk of engine overheating.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Jackknife Ignition Key Collapse
The jackknife style ignition key may collapse, inadvertently shutting off the vehicle while driving (subject of recall 23V093000).
High Rare unknown miles
Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Deactivation
Front seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, reducing protection in a crash (subject of recall).
High Rare unknown miles
Liftgate Hinge Separation
Liftgate hinges can separate from the vehicle during a rear-end crash, compromising protection (subject of recall).
High Rare unknown miles
Door Lock Actuator Failure
Door lock actuators fail, preventing doors from locking or unlocking, posing a safety risk.
Medium Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport:

Forward Collision Avoidance 14% of complaints

Frequent false activations of the automatic emergency braking system, leading to sudden, unintended deceleration.

Engine 11% of complaints

Issues include sudden deceleration, sputtering, engine failure, and overheating due to fan problems.

Electrical System 9% of complaints

Problems range from ignition key issues (recall related) to door lock actuator failures and potential wiring harness issues for lighting.

Service Brakes 6% of complaints

Delayed or absent braking response reported, in addition to issues stemming from false FCA activations.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport

Is the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport safe?

The 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport received excellent NHTSA crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, NHTSA complaint data shows 35 complaints, with 7 crashes and 5 injuries. A notable concern is the 5 complaints related to the Forward Collision Avoidance system's false activations, which can cause sudden braking and increase crash risk. There are also 4 complaints regarding the engine, including reports of deceleration and failure. Three recalls have been issued, addressing issues with the ignition key, seat belt retractors, and liftgate hinges, all of which could impact safety.

What are common problems with the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport?

The most reported issues for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport, based on NHTSA complaints, are related to the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system (5 complaints) due to false activations causing unintended braking. ENGINE problems (4 complaints) such as deceleration, sputtering, and overheating are also frequently cited. Other issues include ELECTRICAL SYSTEM problems (3 complaints) like door lock actuator failures and the recall-related ignition key issue.

Are there any recalls for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport?

Yes, the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport has 3 recalls. These include a recall for the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V093000) where the jackknife key may collapse and shut off the vehicle. Another recall addresses SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR, where the automatic locking retractor may deactivate early. The third recall is for STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS, concerning liftgate hinges that can separate in a crash.

How does the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport perform in crash tests?

The 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport?

When considering a used 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport, prioritize verifying that all three open recalls (ignition key, seat belt retractor, liftgate hinges) have been completed. Pay close attention to the operation of the Forward Collision Avoidance system during a test drive for any signs of erratic or false braking, and listen for any unusual engine noises or signs of overheating.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, be cautious of the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport's reported issues with false Forward Collision Avoidance activations and engine problems; ensure all three recalls are addressed before purchase.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport. The data includes 35 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.