/articles/2006/06/nissan_stops_se

We’re listing this story under the “Recalls” category even though Nissan hasn’t actually issued a recall for an engine problem that has resulted in 17 fires. The root of the malfunction is unknown and the company is investigating why some 2006 Altimas and Sentra SE-Rs are consuming excessive oil, sometimes leading to fires.

There’s also no word on how many of the 100,000 vehicles built between January and May 2006 have actually been sold. Even if you’re not sure you own one of these specific vehicles, it would be wise for owners who bought four-cylinder 2006 Altimas and Sentra SE-Rs since January to check with their dealership even if they’re not experiencing problems. Nissan said it will extend the warranty on the engine of those vehicles to seven years or 100,000 miles.

[Engine Fires Prompt Nissan to Halt Sales of Some 2006s, AP]