Steering wheel / handle bar Autocar, Western, Western Star recall

The problem

Steering shaft binder bolts on certain vehicles are either loose or over-tightened. Either condition can lead to a separation of the steering shaft from the steering column, even if the factory installed bolt has been properly retightened.

The fix

Unique bolts have been designed for this campaign and will be installed along with new nuts. This will be done at no charge to owner.

Contacts

Vehicle description: trucks.System: steering; steering shaft binder bolts.Consequences of defect: shaft separation could result in loss of vehiclecontrol and an accident.Note: as a precaution, immediately check the binder bolts on the steering shaftfor looseness. If they are loose, tighten them to 60 ft-lbs torque. Tighteningbolts does not permanently remedy the defect. New bolts and nuts must beinstalled.

What to do

1. 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.
2. Call a dealer. Any authorized Autocar, Western, Western Star dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 81V122000.
3. Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
4. Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.