The problem
Maserati is recalling 7,912 my 2008 gran turismo, quattroporte, and alfa romeo vehicles. Incorrectly torqued upper and lower ball joint nuts may cause the ball joint nuts to loosen.
The risk
In time, this could lead to noise, steering wheel vibration, and failure of the ball joint stud resulting in damage or separation of the suspension arm. This could result in a loss of steering capability, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the torque of the front/rear upper and lower ball joint nuts and, if necessary, replace the suspension arms and hub carrier. The recall is expected to begin during february 2009. Owners may contact maserati customer service at 1-877-696-2737.
Contacts
Maserati recall no. 183. Customers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.Safercar.Gov>http://www.Safercar.Gov</a> .
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 Alfa Romeo, Maserati dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 09V001000.
- 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.