The problem
On certain school and transit buses the studs used to secure the power steering pump to the engine block can fail, resulting in engine oil leakage and complete loss of power steering. The power steering pump is designed to provide power assist to both the steering system and the hydraulic braking system. Should stud failure cause the pump to become disengaged from its drive gears, a reduction of the fluid flow rate to the brake system could occur and possibly cause an extended stopping distance as well as increased steering wheel efforts.
The risk
Sudden loss of power steering will impair the vehicle operator, possible resulting in a vehicle crash.
The fix
International will notify its customers and all vehicles will be inspected and any suspect studs will be replaced. Owner notification began september 24,2004. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact international at 1-800-448-7825.
Contacts
Also, customers can contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized International dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 04V250000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.