Nissan Motor Co. says it is recalling more than 600,000 vehicles in North and South America and Africa due to steering or battery cable problems.

The Japanese automaker said Thursday that the steering recall affects 303,000 Frontier pickups and 283,000 Xterra sport-utility vehicles. The company says the lower steering column joint can corrode and limit steering movement.

Nissan also is recalling 18,500 Sentra sedans because of a battery cable terminal connector problem that can make the cars difficult to start or stall at low speeds.

The company says no injuries or accidents have been reported because of either issue.

About 240,000 Frontiers, 261,000 Xterras and 14,000 Sentras are affected in the U.S.

Nissan will notify owners in December when parts are available. Repairs will be made for free.