The problem
On certain heavy duty trucks,the lower tie rod arms on certain axles were not induction hardened as required by international's specification.
The risk
Without the induction hardening process being performed, the tie rod arm may fatigue during the expected life of the vehicle. A fatigue failure of the tie rod arm may result in a loss of vehicle steering control that can possibly result in a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and replace the lower tie rod arms. The recall began on november 19, 2004. Owners should contact international truck and engine at 1-800-448-7825.
Contacts
International recall no. 04517. Customers can also 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 04V482000.
- 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.