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.

In a recall notice posted with the the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Nissan said it had identified bearing failures in certain vehicles. Nissan is recalling 443,899 vehicles in the U.S., the notice shows. In Canada, 37,837 are affected, a Nissan spokesperson told the Associated Press.