NISSAN has been urged to recall a 4x4 pick-up truck over fears that they can snap in half.

Owners of Nissan Navaras have reported finding rust which can crack the chassis.

More than 15,000 people have joined a Facebook group for motorists concerned about models registered between 2005 and 2011.

Nissan said it is aware of the issue in a "relatively small number" of previous generation D40 Navaras and has put measures in place to "quickly resolve the concerns of any customers".

Depending on the age of the vehicle, some have been given a free inspection and the Japanese manufacturer has bought back a number of affected trucks.

But calls are growing for a full safety recall to be announced.

Richy Holmes set up the online group after his Navara snapped with his pregnant wife and daughter inside as it was towing a caravan.

The 50-year-old mechanic, from Sunderland, told the Sun: "I was only going a few miles an hour. I dread to think what could've happened if I'd been going faster.

"It's an absolute disgrace that these vehicles are still on the roads."

Commons Transport Select Committee member Huw Merriman told the newspaper: "It's a disgrace these are still on the roads."

He added: "To reassure the public, Nissan would be well advised to recall all affected vehicles."

More than 40,000 Navaras were recalled in Australia in 2013 over fears the towbar could crack due to its design.

In response to the rust issue, a spokesman for the car maker said: "As long as these vehicles are properly maintained, serviced and MoT'd they are safe to drive, and therefore we are dealing with each customer on a case by case basis.

"As is standard industry practice, we only recall a vehicle when there's a safety issue."

Any concerned customers are advised to telephone Nissan on 0330 123 1231.

In May last year, more than 234,000 Vauxhall Zafiras were recalled after more than 300 were reported to have caught fire.

The Transport Select Committee is due to hold a further hearing over the fires on Monday.