The problem
Paint on the wheel mounting surfaces can act as a shim between the wheel and the rotor/drum. As the vehicle is driven, the wheel imbeds into the paint, loosening the lug nut and causing a loss of clamp load.
The risk
Once clamp load is lost, all tire loads are taken by the wheel studs resulting in a fracture of the wheel studs. This could cause the wheel to separate from the vehicle and could result in a vehicles crash without prior warning.
The fix
Dealers will clean the wheel mounting surfaces for all four wheels. Also, the wheel studs will be inspected for damage and will be replaced as necessary.
Contacts
System: wheels; lug nuts; bolts. Vehicle description: passenger cars. Note: if your vehicle is presented to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and the remedy is not provided within a reasonable time and free of charge or the remedy does not correct the defect or noncompliance, please contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, buick at 1-800-521-7300, or cadillac at 1-800-458-8006. Also, please contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
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 Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 94V076000.
- 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.