The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The lower control arm ball joint can separate due to loss of lubrication.
The risk
Separation of the ball joint could cause a loss of steering control increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the ball joint end housing cover seal for leakage with a high pressure air tester and the rubber boot will be visually inspected for damage. If the cover seal leaks or the boot is damaged, the lower control arm will be replaced.
Contacts
Owner notification began december 15, 1997. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chrysler at 1-800-992-1997. Also 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 Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 97V201000.
- 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.