The Associated Press

Nissan is recalling 686,500 Altima and Sentra passenger cars to fix problems with a sensor that could lead to engine stalling.

Nissan Motor Co. spokeswoman Jeannine Ginivan said Monday there have been no reports of crashes or injuries tied to the issue. More than 650,000 of the recalled vehicles are in the United States, with the remainder in Mexico and Canada.

The Japanese automaker said in a Nov. 16 letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the recall affects Altima and Sentra vehicles from the 2002 and 2005-2006 model years equipped with a 2.5-litre engine.

Nissan said the crankshaft position sensor could overheat, causing an interruption in the sensor's signal. Under the condition, the engine could stop running without warning while the car is being driven at low speeds.

Dealers will reprogram the electronic control module to address the problem. Nissan plans to begin notifying owners on Dec. 10. Owners can contact Nissan at (800) 647-7261 with questions about the recall.