NHTSA Recall 03V328000: Suspension: lower ball joint
GENERAL MOTORS CORP. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 41,477 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Chevrolet Astro.
| NHTSA campaign | 03V328000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | 03044 |
| Component | SUSPENSION › FRONT › CONTROL ARM › LOWER BALL JOINT |
| Report received | September 12, 2003 |
| Owner notification | April 8, 2004 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
Certain minivans have an interference condition between the lower ball joint rubber boot and the steering knuckle (both left/right sides), which could result in cutting of the boot that is intended to seal the ball joint. If the lower ball joint boot were cut, contamination from the road (salt, dirt, water, etc.) could enter the ball socket area of the ball joint causing the joint to wear out too quickly.
Safety risk
The steering knuckle could separate from the lower control arm, dropping down the affected corner of the vehicle. The coil spring would push the control arm down into contact with the ground, creating a drag that would slow the vehicle. The driver could have difficulty in maintaining the directional control of the vehicle. In addition, the affected wheel assembly could separate from the vehicle if forces resulting from the wheel's dragging action were sufficient to fracture the tie rod end and upper ball joint connections. Separation of the wheel assembly would also sever that wheel's hydraulic brake hose, resulting in lost braking performance from the front brake system. Vehicle stopping distance would increase, which could result in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering knuckles. Owner notification is expected to begin on april 8, 2004. Owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Notes
GM recall no. 03044.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 03V328000
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.