Buick Century recalls
29 official safety recalls for the Buick Century from NHTSA (United States), DVSA (United Kingdom) and the EU Safety Gate, newest first. Recall repairs are normally free at the maker’s dealers.
Whether your car is affected and still needs the repair depends on its VIN or registration. Check it on the official site for your country:
- United States: nhtsa.gov/recalls
- United Kingdom: check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk
Headlamps may not illuminate overhead signs well
Low beam headlamps may provide too little illumination for drivers to read overhead signs at night. Dealers will install new low beam bulbs in both headlamp assemblies.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Defect
- CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." SOME OF THESE VEHICLES DO NOT MEET THE OVERHEAD SIGN ILLUMINATION REQUIREMENTS.
- Consequence
- LESS ILLUMINATION MAY REDUCE THE ABILITY OF THE DRIVER TO READ OVERHEAD SIGNS WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW LOW BEAM HEADLAMP BULBS IN BOTH OF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 8, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080. NOTE: IF THE BULB NEEDS REPLACEMENT IN THE FUTURE, GM BULB NUMBER 89024715 IS AVAILABLE FROM A DEALER, OR THE EQUIVALENT SYLVANIA BULB IS 9006HP, WITH ORANGE LETTERING ON THE BULB.
- Notes
- GM RECALL NO. 04052.CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Airbag warning label does not meet requirements
The airbag label’s message area is smaller than required, so the vehicle does not meet the applicable safety standard. A new bilingual label and installation instructions will be mailed; a dealer can install it free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, EQUIPPED WITH SUNVISOR LOCATED AIR BAG LABELS, FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLES SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES HAVE A MESSAGE AREA LESS THAN 30 CM WHICH DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Consequence
- THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE STANDARD.
- Remedy
- GM WILL MAIL A NEW BILINGUAL AIR BAG LABEL WITH INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. HOWEVER, THE CUSTOMER MAY BRING THE LABEL TO THEIR DEALER FOR INSTALLATION FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 4, 2001. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537 OR BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.
- Notes
- ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Side air bag inflator may separate during deployment
The driver's side impact air bag inflator may separate during deployment, reducing occupant protection and possibly injuring a rear passenger. Dealers will replace the side impact air bag module.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES EXHIBIT A CONDITION IN WHICH THE DRIVER SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG INFLATOR SEPARATES FROM THE AIR BAG MODULE DURING DEPLOYMENT.
- Consequence
- IF THE INFLATOR SEPARATES, THE AIR BAG WILL NOT DEPLOY PROPERLY DURING A CRASH AND OCCUPANT PROTECTION WOULD BE REDUCED. IF IS ALSO POSSIBLE THAT A SEPARATED INFLATOR COULD BE PROPELLED DOWNWARD AND COULD RESULT IN INJURY TO A REAR SEAT PASSENGER WHOSE FOOT IS POSITIONED APPROXIMATELY UNDER THE INFLATOR MODULE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG MODULE.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2000.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 CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Seat belt buckle base may not withstand crash forces
The buckle base may not meet the required load strength because it was not properly heat treated. In a crash, an occupant may not be properly restrained. Dealers will check buckle date codes and replace affected buckles.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
- Consequence
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE'S SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY DATE CODES AND, IF NECESSARY, WILL REPLACE ANY SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 24, 2000. 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 BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020; GMC AT 1-800-462-8782; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537; PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737; OR SATURN AT 1-800-553-6000. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel filler hose clamp may loosen
The clamp securing the flexible fuel fill hose may be loose and separate, causing excessive fuel leakage. Dealers will inspect the clamp and reposition and tighten it if necessary.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE CLAMP THAT SECURES THE FLEXIBLE FUEL FILL HOSE TO THE METAL FILL TUBE MAY BE LOOSE AND COULD SEPARATE.
- Consequence
- THIS COULD CAUSE FUEL LEAKAGE EXCEEDING THE PERMISSIBLE AMOUNT.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL HOSE FILL NECK CLAMP AND, IF NECESSARY, REPOSITION AND TIGHTEN THE CLAMP.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 21, 2000. 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 CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Rear spindle bolts may separate
Rear spindle bolt heads may separate, allowing a rear wheel to shift and steer the vehicle from the rear. The driver could lose control and crash. Dealers will replace the rear spindle bolts.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR DRUM BRAKES. THE BOLT HEAD(S) ON THE REAR SPINDLE ROD CAN SEPARATE.
- Consequence
- THE REAR WHEEL CAN SHIFT, CAUSING REAR STEERING OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER COULD LOSE CONTROL AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR SPINDLE BOLTS.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 23, 2000. 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 BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300 OR CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Vertical headlamp adjustment may be miscalibrated
The vertical headlamp adjustment device may not be calibrated properly, which could impair visibility and increase the risk of a crash. Owners will receive instructions for aiming the headlamps optically.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE VERTICAL HEAD LAMP ADJUSTING DEVICE MAY NOT BE CALIBRATED PROPERLY.
- Consequence
- DRIVER VISIBILITY MAY BE IMPAIRED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy
- OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN OWNER'S MANUAL INSERT CONTAINING INSTRUCTIONS FOR OPTICALLY AIMING THE HEADLAMPS.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 20, 2000. 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 BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Windshield wipers may stop working
The wipers may stop working if the drive pin separates from the crank arm. Reduced visibility could increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect for a water deflector and, if needed, replace the crank arm and install a deflector, sealing material and a reinforcement.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS MAY STOP WORKING DUE TO A SEPARATION BETWEEN THE DRIVE PIN AND CRESCENT IN THE CRANK ARM ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence
- DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES FOR THE PRESENCE OF A PLASTIC WATER DEFLECTOR AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CRANK ARM AND INSTALL A WATER DEFLECTOR. ON VEHICLES RECEIVING A REPLACEMENT CRANK ARM AND NEW WATER DEFLECTOR, DEALERS WILL ALSO APPLY ADDITIONAL SEALING MATERIAL TO IMPROVE WATER DEFLECTION AWAY FROM THE CRANK ARM ASSEMBLY AND WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE WIPER PARK MECHANISM.
- Notes
- GM RECALL NO. 99091.OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 25, 2000.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 PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737 OR BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
ABS motor short may overheat brake pipe and cause fire
With the key on, the ABS motor may short to its case and ground through a flexible brake fluid pipe. The pipe could overheat and melt a nearby plastic fuel hose, potentially causing an underhood fire. Dealers will install a ground cable from the electronic brake control module to the engine compartment body rail.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Defect
- SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WITH THE KEY IN THE "ON" POSITION, EXHIBIT A CONDITION IN WHICH THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MOTOR SHORTS TO ITS CASE AND GROUNDS THROUGH A FLEXIBLE BRAKE FLUID PIPE.
- Consequence
- THIS SHORT CAN CAUSE EXTREME HEATING OF THE FLEXIBLE BRAKE PIPE WHERE IT CAN MELT A NEARBY FLEXIBLE PLASTIC FUEL HOSE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A GROUND CABLE FROM THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE (EBCM) TO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT BODY RAIL.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 25, 1999. 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 BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Owner manual lacks headlamp aiming information
Without the required headlamp aiming information, owners may be unable to aim replacement headlamp assemblies properly. Owners will be mailed an insert with the information.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OWNER MANUALS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIREMENT INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE VEHICLE HEADLAMP AIMING DEVICE. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence
- IF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE REPLACED, CUSTOMERS MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY AIM THE HEADLIGHTS.
- Remedy
- OWNERS WILL BE MAILED AN OWNER MANUAL'S INSERT WHICH CONTAINS THE APPROPRIATE INFORMATION.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 1998.OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE INSERT AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300 OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Rear seat belt anchorages may tear
Rear outboard seat belt anchorages may not withstand the required load and could tear away from the body in a crash, reducing occupant protection. Dealers will replace the anchor bolts and apply noise control patches at each anchorage.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Defect
- THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH REAR OUTBOARD SAFETY BELT ANCHORAGES THAT MAY NOT WITHSTAND THE REQUIRED LOAD. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO.210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES."
- Consequence
- CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IN A COLLISON, STRESS CAN CAUSE THE ATTACHMENT METAL TO TEAR AND ALLOW THE ANCHORAGE TO SEPARATE FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY BELT MAY NOT PROTECT AN OCCUPANT IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING ANCHOR BOLTS WITH A NEW SHOULDER BOLT AND THREAD LOCKING ADHESIVE. ADDITIONALLY, NOISE CONTROL PATCHES WILL BE APPLIED AT EACH ANCHORAGE.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: INTERIOR; ACTIVE RESTRAINTS; BELT ANCHOR AND ATTACHMENT; FMVSS NO.210.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: 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 BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020; PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737; OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Right spindle nut may be loose
An improperly tightened right spindle nut can cause premature wheel bearing failure and, over time, spindle fracture. The wheel could separate from the axle and cause a crash. Dealers will check the nut torque and replace the wheel bearing assembly and nut if it is undertorqued.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
- Defect
- THE RIGHT HAND SPINDLE NUT WAS NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED DURING ASSEMBLY. THIS CAN CAUSE PREMATURE WHEEL BEARING FAILURE AND OVER TIME, THE SPINDLE CAN FRACTURE.
- Consequence
- THIS WOULD CAUSE THE WHEEL TO SEPARATE FROM THE AXLE AND RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TORQUE ON THE RIGHT HAND FRONT SPINDLE NUT. IF THE SPINDLE NUT IS UNDERTORQUED THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE RIGHT HAND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY AND THE SPINDLE NUT WILL BE REPLACED.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: SUSPENSION; INDEPENDANT FRONT; SPINDLE; KNUCKLE; STEERING.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT, PLEASE CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Power door lock short circuit may cause a fire
Water intrusion may cause a short circuit in the power door lock assembly, which could cause a vehicle fire. Dealers will replace the relay and any corroded terminals, and move the relay to an area less likely to get wet.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Defect
- WATER INTRUSION CAN CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE POWER DOOR LOCK ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence
- A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE POWER DOOR LOCK ASSEMBLY CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER DOOR LOCK RELAY AND ANY CORRODED TERMINALS. IN ADDITION, THE NEW RELAY WILL BE RELOCATED TO AN AREA WHERE WATER INTRUSION IS LESS LIKELY.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: STRUCTURE; DOOR ASSEMBLY; LATCHES AND LOCKS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH POWER DOOR LOCKS.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT, PLEASE CONTACT BUICK SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-521-7300 OR OLDSMOBILE SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-442-6537. ALSO,CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Backup throttle spring may not close the throttle
If the primary accelerator spring fails, the backup spring may not return the throttle to fully closed. Loss of throttle control could cause a crash. Dealers will replace the secondary throttle return spring.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:SPRINGS
- Defect
- IN THE EVENT OF A PRIMARY ACCELERATOR CONTROL SPRING FAILURE, THE SECONDARY (BACK-UP) ACCELERATOR CONTROL RETURN SPRING WILL NOT RETURN THE THROTTLE TO THE FULLY CLOSED POSITION, AS REQUIRED BY FMVSS NO. 124, "ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEM."
- Consequence
- CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SECONDARY THROTTLE RETURN SPRING.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: FUEL; THROTTLE LINKAGES AND CONTROL RETURN SPRING; FMVSS NO. 214.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS EQUIPPED WITH 3.1L L82 ENGINES. NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREE OF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE,PLEASE CONTACT BUICK SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-521-7300 OR CONTACT OLDSMOBILE SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-442-6537. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Accelerator cable may bind in cold weather
Water in the accelerator cable conduit may cause high effort or binding in very cold weather. The throttle may not return to idle when the pedal is released, which could lead to a crash. The remedy is to purge any trapped water from the cable.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
- Defect
- DURING ASSEMBLY, WATER MAY HAVE ENTERED THE ACCELERATOR CONTROL CABLE CONDUIT CAUSING IT TO DEVELOP A HIGH EFFORT AND/OR BINDING CONDITION IN VERY COLD WEATHER.
- Consequence
- HIGH EFFORT OR BINDING CONDITIONS CAUSE LOSS OF NORMALTHROTTLE CONTROL OR THE THROTTLE MAY NOT RETURN TO IDLE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS RELEASED. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy
- THE DEALER WILL PURGE THE THROTTLE CABLE OF ANY INTERNALLY TRAPPED WATER, IF IT IS PRESENT.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: FUEL; THROTTLE LINKAGES; ACCELERATOR; FLEXIBLE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREE OF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE CONTACT BUICK SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-521-7300. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Cruise control cable may separate
The cruise control cable can separate from its fitting while engaged, causing loss of accelerator control. Engine speed may not drop as expected, and a crash could occur without warning. Replace the cruise control cable.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Defect
- THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE MAY SEPARATE FROM THE CONDUIT END FITTING WHILE ENGAGED AND ACCELERATOR CONTROL COULD BE LOST.
- Consequence
- LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL MAY NOT REDUCE ENGINE SPEEDTO A LEVEL ANTICIPATED BY THE DRIVER. ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE CAN STILL BE STOPPEDWITH THE SERVICE BRAKE, LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLECRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy
- REPLACE THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: EQUIPMENT; SPEED CONTROL.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS WITH 3.1L ENGINES AND CRUISE CONTROL.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPONSERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREEOF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASECONTACT BUICK SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-521-7000 OR OLDSMOBILE SERVICE CENTERAT 1-800-442-6537. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETYADMINISTRATION AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Brake hoses may reduce braking effectiveness
Incorrectly manufactured brake hoses may reduce braking effectiveness or cause uneven braking, potentially resulting in an accident. The specified front or rear brake hose assemblies will be replaced.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Defect
- THE BRAKE HOSES WERE MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY, AND DO NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 106, "BRAKE HOSES."
- Consequence
- THE IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED BRAKE HOSES CAN CAUSEREDUCED BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS AND/OR UNEVEN BRAKING, WHICH COULD RESULT IN ANACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- REPLACE THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE HOSE ASSEMBLY ON CIERA AND CENTURY MODELS, AND BOTH REAR BRAKE HOSES ON CAVALIER AND SUNBIRD MODELS.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: BRAKES; HYDRAULIC; HOSE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED SERVICEDATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME WITHOUT CHARGE ORTHE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASECONTACT THE APPROPRIATE SERVICE CENTER ( BUICK AT 1-800-458-8006, PONTIAC AT1-800-763-2737; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537; OR CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 ).ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETYHOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Seat wiring may short and ignite cushion
The power seat or recliner wiring may chafe on the seat frame or support rod, causing a short that can overheat and ignite the seat cushion. Repair abraded wiring and reroute the harness with a clip.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Defect
- THE POWER SEAT OR RECLINER WIRING HARNESS CAN BE PINCHED OR CAN CHAFE ON THE SEAT FRAME OR SPRING SUPPORT ROD, WEARING THROUGH THE WIRE INSULATION AND CAUSING AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
- Consequence
- THE HIGH CURRENT CAUSED BY THE ELECTRICAL SHORT WELDS THECIRCUIT BREAKER ELEMENTS TOGETHER IN THE CLOSED POSITION, LEAVING THE CIRCUITUNPROTECTED AND GENERATING SUFFICIENT HEAT TO BURN THE WIRE INSULATION ANDIGNITE THE SEAT CUSHION MATERIAL.
- Remedy
- REPAIR ANY ABRADED WIRING AND REROUTE THE WIRING HARNESS USING A WIRING HARNESS CLIP.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: INTERIOR: SEATING.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS WITH 6 WAY POWER SEATS OR POWER RECLINERS.
Remote entry fault may open the tailgate
A faulty remote entry module may randomly operate the interior lamps, door locks or tailgate release. If the tailgate opens while driving, unrestrained rear passengers could fall out and be seriously injured. The module will be replaced with a revised one.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Defect
- THE OPTIONAL REMOTE ENTRY MODULE MAY HAVE A FAULT WHICH CAUSES RANDOM ACTUATION OF INTERIOR LAMPS, DOOR LOCKS, AND/OR TAILGATE RELEASE. THIS ACTUATION MAY OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN USE OR UNATTENDED.
- Consequence
- IF THE TAILGATE RELEASE ACTUATES, THE TAILGATE WILL OPEN.UNRESTRAINED PASSENGERS IN THE REAR SEAT AREA COULD FALL OUT OF THE VEHICLEWHILE THE CAR IS IN MOTION, AND RECEIVE SERIOUS INJURIES.
- Remedy
- REPLACE THE REMOTE ENTRY MODULE WITH A NEWLY REVISED MODULE TO PREVENT RANDOM ACTUATION.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: ELECTRICAL; REMOTE ENTRY MODULES.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS (STATION WAGONS) WITH REMOTE ENTRY MODULES.
Transmission reverse servo pin may bind
The reverse servo apply pin may bind, causing loss or slipping of reverse, poor performance in Drive, or reverse when the indicator shows Neutral. Unexpected rearward movement could cause a crash. The transaxle will be replaced where required.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Defect
- THE REVERSE SERVO APPLY PIN MAY BIND IN THE CASE WHICH COULD CAUSE REVERSE BAND DISTRESS (LOSS OR SLIPPING OF REVERSE), REVERSE BAND DRAG IN DRIVE RANGE (POOR PERFORMANCE -- POOR POWER), OR THE TRANSMISSION TO REMAIN IN REVERSE WHILE THE SHIFT INDICATOR SHOWS NEUTRAL GEAR POSITION.
- Consequence
- IF THE TRANSMISSION REMAINS IN REVERSE WHILE THE SHIFTINDICATOR SHOWS NEUTRAL, THE VEHICLE MAY UNEXPECTEDLY MOVE REARWARD AND RESULTIN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- REPLACE THE TRANSAXLE WHERE REQUIRED.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: TRANSMISSION AND TRANSMISSION SHIFT INDICATOR.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 1992 "A" AND "W" BODY PASSENGER CARS WITH 4-SPEEDAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.
Fuel feed hose may leak
The fuel feed hose may leak at its engine end, allowing fuel into the engine compartment and potentially causing a fire that could spread to the passenger compartment. A new fuel feed hose assembly will be installed.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Defect
- FUEL FEED HOSE COULD LEAK AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence
- FUEL LEAKAGE INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COULD RESULT INAN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE THAT COULD SPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
- Remedy
- INSTALL NEW FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: FUEL FEED HOSE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS EQUIPPED WITH A 2.8L V6 ENGINE.
Front suspension bracket may crack
Cracks in the front suspension lower control arm bracket could let the control arm disengage, causing loss of steering control and a possible crash. Dealers will inspect and replace the engine cradle assembly on suspect vehicles.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
- Defect
- FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BRACKET COULD DEVELOP METAL CRACKS.
- Consequence
- THESE CRACKS MAY RESULT IN DISENGAGEMENT OF THE LOWERCONTROL ARM. IF THIS OCCURS WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, IT COULD RESULT INLOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy
- INSPECT ALL VEHICLES AND REPLACE ENGINE CRADLE ASSEMBLY ON ALL SUSPECT VEHICLES.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: SUSPENSION/LOWER CONTROL FRONT ARM BRACKET.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CAR
Owner's manual omits child restraint statement
The owner's manual omits a statement about child restraint systems, so the vehicle does not meet the stated safety standard. Owners will receive an updated manual with the missing information.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS
- Defect
- OWNERS MANUAL DID NOT INCLUDE STATEMENT ON CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS.
- Consequence
- VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO FMVSS 210.
- Remedy
- FURNISH OWNERS WITH UPDATED OWNERS MANUALS THAT CONTAIN THE OMITTED INSTRUCTIONS.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGE INFORMATION/FMVSS 210.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS
Wiring fault may cause stop lamp to light incorrectly
Incorrectly indexed wiring may keep the center high-mounted stop lamp on with the headlights or parking lamps, or turn on the opera lamps when braking. The stop lamp will be corrected by properly indexing the wiring harness terminals.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK
- Defect
- AN INCORRECTLY INDEXED WIRING HARNESS MAY CAUSE THE CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS OR PARKING LAMPS ARE ON. FMVSS 108 LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT REQUIRES THAT THIS STOP LAMP BE LIGHTED ONLY WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED. ALSO, THE OPERA LAMPS MAY COME ON WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THE CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP PROVIDES ADDITIONAL WARNING THAT THE VEHICLE IS SLOWING OR STOPPING. IF THIS LAMP MALFUNCTIONS, IT MAY CONTRIBUTE TO A REAR END ACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- CORRECTLY INDEX WIRING HARNESS TERMINALS.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: WIRING HARNESS FOR CENTER STOP LAMP/FMVSS 108.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS EQUIPPED WITH LUGGAGE RACK AND OPERA LAMP OPTIONS.
Generator terminal may contact fuel pipe
The generator terminal may rub through its protective boot and contact the carburetor fuel pipe, potentially causing an underhood fire and burn injuries. The rectifier end frame will be rotated to provide clearance.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Defect
- THE GENERATOR "BAT" TERMINAL LOCATED ON THE RECTIFIER END FRAME MAY CONTACT THE CARBURETOR FUEL INLET PIPE. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THE "BAT" STUD MAY RUB THROUGH THE TERMINAL BOOT AND CONTACT THE FUEL PIPE WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE AND CAUSE BURN INJURIES TO THE OCCUPANT.
- Remedy
- OBTAIN CLEARANCE BETWEEN FUEL PIPE AND GENERATOR "BAT" TERMINAL BY ROTATING THE RECTIFIER END FRAME.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: ELECTRICAL/GENERATOR. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS WITH 2.8L ENGINES AND 108 AMP GENERATORS.
Incorrect rear brake system may increase stopping distance
Some vehicles have the wrong rear brake system and may exceed the required maximum stopping distance, which could lead to a crash. The correct brake system will be installed.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM
- Defect
- SOME WAGONS WERE ASSEMBLED WITH A JA2 REAR SYSTEM INSTEAD OF THE JA3 BRAKE SYSTEM. THESE STATION WAGONS MAY EXCEED THE MAXIMUM STOPPING DISTANCE REQUIRED BY FMVSS 105. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING SHOULD A STOPPING DISTANCE CONFORMING WITH FMVSS 105 BE REQUIRED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.
- Remedy
- INSTALL CORRECT BRAKE SYSTEM.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: STATION WAGONS. SYSTEM: REAR BRAKES FMVSS 105.
Fuel feed pipe connection may leak
Fuel may leak at the throttle body injection fuel feed pipe connection, potentially causing an underhood fire that could spread into the passenger compartment. The fuel feed pipe will be replaced.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Defect
- THE FUEL SYSTEM MAY LEAK AT THE THROTTLE BODY INJECTION FUEL FEED PIPE CONNECTION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS LEAKAGE COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE WHICH COULD SPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND CAUSE BURN INJURIES TO OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy
- REPLACE THE FUEL FEED PIPE.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS EQUIPPED WITH 2.5L L4 ENGINES.SYSTEM: FUEL.
Seat back lock may fail in a crash
Some seat back locks may not meet the stated safety standard and may fail to function in a crash. Locks with bent, broken, or missing hooks will be replaced after inspection.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Defect
- SOME VEHICLES HAVE BUCKET SEAT BACK LOCKS THAT DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 207, ANCHORAGE OF SEATS. IN EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK LOCK MAY NOT FUNCTION.
- Remedy
- INSPECTION OF SEAT BACK LOCKS WILL BE PERFORMED. LOCKS THAT HAVE BENT, BROKEN OR MISSING HOOKS WILL BE REPLACED.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: TWO DOOR PASSENGER VEHICLES AND LIGHT TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITHAR9 OR AV5 BUCKET SEATS.SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS, SEAT BACK LOCKS.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: THE SEAT MAY FOLD FORWARD IN A CRASH, AND WOULDINCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
Brake proportioner valve may break and leak
A brake proportioner valve may break away from the master cylinder, leak brake fluid and cause partial loss of the brake system. Dealers will inspect and replace suspect valves if needed.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DIFFERENTIAL PROPORTIONAL VALVE
- Defect
- THE BRAKE PROPORTIONER VALVES MAY BREAK AND SEPARATE FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER. THIS WOULD ALLOW BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK AND WOULD RESULT IN A PARTIAL LOSS OF THE BRAKE SYSTEM.
- Remedy
- THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE ALL SUSPECT VALVES.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.SYSTEM: SERVICE BRAKES; BRAKE PROPORTIONER VALVES.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: SINCE THIS IS A DUAL BRAKE SYSTEM, PART OF THE SYSTEMWILL STILL WORK AND ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO BE STOPPED, BUT OVER A GREATERDISTANCE. PARTIAL LOSS OF THE BRAKING SYSTEM AT A TIME WHEN MINIMUM STOPPINGDISTANCE IS REQUIRED COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Sources: NHTSA (US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), DVSA (UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) and the EU Safety Gate (European Commission) recall data. Each recall covers vehicles sold in that market; models sold elsewhere may differ.