Defect Description For Recall
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.
Make Of Vehicle
CHEVROLET
Model Of Vehicle
ASTRO
Year
2003
Recall Campaign Number
03V328000
Component Description
Suspension:Front:Control Arm:Lower Ball Joint
Effect Of Defect
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.
Fix Defect
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.
Vehicle Manufacturer
General Motors Corp.
Start Of Manufacture
20020301
End Of Manufacture
20030630
Type Of Vehicle Recall
V
Number Affected
41477
Date Owners Notified
20040408
Initiated By
Mfr
Responsible Manufacturer
General Motors, Llc
Date Report Received
20030912
Make Campaign Number
3044