2003 Chevrolet Astro and GMC Safari recall: lower ball joint
General Motors Corp. reported this safety recall on September 12, 2003. It covers about 41,477 vehicles.
- vehicles affected
- 41,477
- reported
- Sep 12, 2003
- owners notified
- Apr 8, 2004
- related complaints
- 9
Suspension: front: control arm: lower ball joint
- What is wrong
- Certain minivans have an interference condition between the lower ball joint rubber boot and the steering knuckle (both left/right sides), which could result in cutting of the boot that is intended to seal the ball joint. If the lower ball joint boot were cut, contamination from the road (salt, dirt, water, etc.) could enter the ball socket area of the ball joint causing the joint to wear out too quickly.
- Risk
- The steering knuckle could separate from the lower control arm, dropping down the affected corner of the vehicle. The coil spring would push the control arm down into contact with the ground, creating a drag that would slow the vehicle. The driver could have difficulty in maintaining the directional control of the vehicle. In addition, the affected wheel assembly could separate from the vehicle if forces resulting from the wheel's dragging action were sufficient to fracture the tie rod end and upper ball joint connections. Separation of the wheel assembly would also sever that wheel's hydraulic brake hose, resulting in lost braking performance from the front brake system. Vehicle stopping distance would increase, which could result in a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the steering knuckles. Owner notification is expected to begin on april 8, 2004. Owners should contact chevrolet at 1‑800‑630‑2438 or gmc at 1‑866‑996‑9463.
Recall number 03V328000
Affected vehicles
- Chevrolet Astro 2003 2003
- GMC Safari 2003 2003
Owner complaints about the same problem
Owners of these vehicles have filed 9 complaints about suspension problems.
Questions about recall 03V328000
Is there a recall on the 2003 Chevrolet Astro and GMC Safari lower ball joint?
Yes. Recall 03V328000, reported on September 12, 2003, covers about 41,477 vehicles.
What is the fix for recall 03V328000?
Dealers will replace the steering knuckles. Owner notification is expected to begin on april 8, 2004. Owners should contact chevrolet at 1‑800‑630‑2438 or gmc at 1‑866‑996‑9463.
Is the recall repair free?
Safety recall repairs are done free of charge at authorized dealers. A dealer can confirm with the VIN whether a specific vehicle is included and whether the repair has already been done.
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