Suspension & Steering
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.
An interference fit between the lower ball joint rubber boot and the steering knuckle may cause the rubber boot to be cut. This would allow entry of water, dirt, salt, or other contaminants, possibly leading to premature wear. Failure from premature wear could lead to separation of the steering knuckle and lower control arm, which would cause the vehicle to drop at the affected corner. Vehicle handling and braking could be compromised, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the steering knuckles. The recall began April 8, 2004. The GM recall number is 03044.
Please contact your GM dealer. They will check to see if your specific vehicle is affected and advise you on what to do next. Always have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy when you call.