The problem
On certain trucks, the tie rod end ball joint dust boot was designed with insufficient sealing ability. This condition could allow contamination to enter into the tie rod end ball joint, abnormally wearing the resin bearing located inside the joint.
The risk
The tie rod end ball joint could separate from the tie rod end, disabling the steering system, and causing a crash .
The fix
Dealers will install modified tie rod end assemblies. The recall began on january 13, 2005. Owners should contact mitsubishi fuso at 856-467-3917.
Contacts
Mitsubishi fuso recall no. R3128610. 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 Mitsubishi Fuso dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 04V535000.
- 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.