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NHTSA Recall 81V010000: Vacuum (service brakes)

GENERAL MOTORS CORP. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 320,677 vehicles. It affects 7 models including the Chevrolet C20.

320,677
vehicles potentially affected
7
models affected
1981
owners notified (January 9)
NHTSA campaign81V010000
ComponentSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC › POWER ASSIST › VACUUM
Report receivedJanuary 13, 1981
Owner notificationJanuary 9, 1981
Initiated byManufacturer

Defect

Fatigue cracks may develop in the brake vacuum booster housing. This may cause a vacuum leak and reduce the effectiveness of the brakes. After prolonged use, the cracks may develop to the extent that the booster may separate from the vehicle.

Safety risk

Not provided.

Remedy

Vehicles will be inspected for fatigue cracks in the brake vacuum booster. Those without cracks will have a support brace installed. Those with evidence of cracking will have a new brake vacuum booster and support brace installed. This service will be provided at no charge.

Notes

Vehicle description: light trucks equipped with vacuum power disc/drum brakes.system: service brakes; vacuum brake booster housing.consequences of defect: separation will result in a loss of braking abilitywithout prior warning and may lead to an accident. Partial loss of brakingability may also lead to an accident, particularly in situations where minimumstopping distance is required.

Vehicles covered by recall 81V010000

Make and modelModel years
Chevrolet C201979, 1980
Chevrolet C301979, 1980
Chevrolet K201979, 1980
Chevrolet K301979, 1980
GMC C201979, 1980
GMC K201979, 1980
GMC K301979, 1980

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.