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NHTSA Recall 03V016000: Structure

EXPLORER VAN COMPANY reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 2,600 vehicles. It affects 1998 Explorer van Chevrolet Astro.

2,600
vehicles potentially affected
1
model affected
2003
owners notified (January 23)
NHTSA campaign03V016000
ComponentSTRUCTURE
Report receivedJanuary 23, 2003
Owner notificationJanuary 23, 2003
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

On certain conversion vans equipped with running boards supplied by prodesign, inc., that incorporate a courtesy light, exposure to excessive moisture and road salt, a high resistance arc can occur in the wiring of the courtesy light. When this occurs, the light wires can overheat to the point where they may melt the running board.

Safety risk

This could potentially lead to a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the courtesy light. Owner notification began january 23, 2003. 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 explorer van at 1-800-926-7878.

Notes

Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Vehicles covered by recall 03V016000

Make and modelModel years
Explorer van Chevrolet Astro1998

Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.