The 2010 Nissan Cube.

The NHTSA is issuing a recall on 2009 and 2010 Nissan Cube models due to excessive fuel leakage in rear crash tests. During the NHTSA’s rear crash tests, the Cube leaked more fuel than is acceptable, which could lead to a fire in the event of a rear-end collision. According to Autoblog, 46,000 Nissan Cube models are affected by the recall.

Nissan will be contacting Cube owners to schedule a repair for the fuel leak problem. Extra protection will be installed between the gas tank and the fuel filler neck in order to prevent the gas leak. The recall will take place on or before August 30, and will include any Cube models built between January 30, 2009 and July 30, 2010.

The Nissan Cube fuel leak recall is very similar to the Lexus HS250h recall. While the recall should not be ignored, Cube owners shouldn’t panic. This is not a case of minor accidents resulting in an eruption of the fuel tank. For the test, the NHTSA impacts the car with a barrier at 50-mph, then spins the car and closely inspects the amount of fuel leaking. While the NHTSA did not say how much fuel leaked from the Cube, it did say that the amount of leakage was above the allowable limits.

If you’re thinking of buying a Cube, this recall shouldn’t put you off.  You should, however, see about having the fuel leak fix performed before you take delivery of the car in order to save yourself a trip back to the dealership next month.