NHTSA Recall 78V138000: Axle shaft (power train)
GENERAL MOTORS CORP. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 265,068 vehicles. It affects 7 models including the Buick Century.
| NHTSA campaign | 78V138000 |
|---|---|
| Component | POWER TRAIN › AXLE ASSEMBLY › AXLE SHAFT |
| Report received | June 13, 1978 |
| Owner notification | June 26, 1978 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Defect
The rear axle shafts may contain a flaw in the metal. This flaw could allow the shaft to break and the tire and wheel assembly to separate.
Safety risk
Not provided.
Remedy
The dealer will replace one or both rear axle shafts, if necessary, free of charge.
Notes
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles.system: suspension; axle/shaft.consequences of defect: should separation occur while vehicle is in motion,loss of vehicle control without prior warning and an accident could result.note: driver should avoid fast cornering, rapid acceleration, or any type ofdriving which may produce abnormally heavy loads on the rear axle shafts untilthe vehicle can be inspected.
Vehicles covered by recall 78V138000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Buick Century | 1977 |
| Buick Regal | 1977 |
| Chevrolet Malibu | 1977 |
| Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1977 |
| Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1977 |
| Pontiac Grand Prix | 1977 |
| Pontiac Lemans | 1977 |
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.