Recall - Lower Control Arm Pivot Bolt Replacement: Overview
May 2001Safety Recall No. 981
Lower Control Arm Pivot Bolts
Reference:
April 25, 2001 electronic mail (DMAIL) message on this subject.
Models
2001 (RS) Chrysler Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles built at the:
^ St. Louis South Assembly Plant ("B" in the 11th VIN Position) from March 26, 2001 through April 21, 2001 (MDH 032606 through 042100).
^ Windsor Assembly Plant ("R" in the 11th VIN Position) from March 22, 2001 through April 21, 2001 (MDH 032216 through 042103).
IMPORTANT:
Many of the vehicles within the above build period have already been repaired at the assembly plant and, therefore, will show as "Complete" on the DIAL VIP system.
IMPORTANT:
Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to stop sale and complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
Subject
The lower control arm pivot bolts on about 41,500 of the above vehicles may break. This could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident without warning.
Repair
The left and right lower control arm pivot bolts and nuts must be replaced.
Towing and Alternate Transportation
Dealers must immediately contact owners of sold vehicles and advise them not to drive their vehicle. Dealers should call Roadside Assistance at 1-800-521-2779 to have the vehicle towed to the dealership for this repair. Alternate transportation should be provided if necessary.
Parts Information
DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP
All involved vehicles have been entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP for dealer inquiry as needed.
Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system, type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "0RD981".
Owner Notification and Service Scheduling
All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are instructed not to drive their vehicle and to arrange to have their vehicle towed to a dealer immediately. A copy of the owner letter is included.
Enclosed with each owner letter is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Vehicle Not Available
If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive East
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757
Additional Information
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.