Recall - Steering Gear Replacement: Overview
October 2000Dealer Service Instructions for:
Safety Recall No. 894
Steering Gear Assembly
Models:
2001 (ST) Dodge Stratus Coupe and Chrysler Sebring Coupe
(Two-Door)
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles built through June 24, 2000 (MDH 0624XX).
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 steering gear pinion shaft nut on about 2,800 of the above vehicles may not have been properly tightened. A loose pinion shaft nut can cause steering wheel vibration, hard steering feel and/or an inability to make a left turn, which could cause an accident without warning.
Repair:
The steering gear pinion shaft nut must be inspected on all vehicles. Vehicles that have an improperly tightened nut must have the steering gear assembly replaced.
Alternate Transportation
If inspection determines that steering gear replacement is required and the vehicle must be held overnight, dealers should attempt to minimize customer inconvenience by placing the owner in a loaner vehicle.
Parts Information
Due to the small number of involved vehicles expected to require steering gear replacement, no parts will be distributed initially. Steering gear assemblies should be ordered only after inspection determines that replacement is required. Very few vehicles are expected to require steering gear replacement.
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use one of the labor operation numbers and time allowances shown.
Parts Return
Removed steering gear assemblies must be returned to the Warranty Material Return Center.
NOTE:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing and Material Return Sections, for complete recall claim processing instructions.
Dealer Notification and Vehicle List
All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the DCMMS, and the MDS2 will be updated to include this recall in the near future. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The vehicle list is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to DaimlerChrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.
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 "ORD894".
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 requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A copy of the owner letter is shown.
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.