Component
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
Manufacturer
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
What Happened
The lower ball joint on your vehicle's front suspension is a critical part that connects the control arm to the wheel. If the rubber boots around this joint are damaged, dirt and water can get inside and cause problems.
Risk if Unfixed
If the lower ball joint fails, it could break apart while you're driving, making it harder to control your vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your dealer will inspect the lower ball joint and replace it with a new one if it's worn out, or clean and apply a special sealant to protect it if it's still within acceptable limits – both of these repairs are free of charge.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE. ALSO, MMC HAS ADDED THE POTENTIAL OF LEAKING MOISTURE, WHICH CAN CAUSE THE BALL STUD TO CORRODE.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT TO SEPARATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. THIS CAMPAIGN SUPERCEDES MMC'S PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN, SEE 99V-066.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT FOR WEAR. BALL JOINTS THAT EXHIBIT WEAR BEYOND THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY DESIGNED LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS. BALL JOINTS THAT ARE WITHIN THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE CLEANED AND A SPECIAL SEALANT WILL BE APPLIED TO PREVENT INTRUSION OF MOISTURE.
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Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →