Component
STEERING:LINKAGES
Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The pinches bolts on your vehicle's steering system keep the lower control arm connected to the steering knuckle. These bolts might not be tightened properly, which could cause some issues.
Risk if Unfixed
If the bolts are loose, you might hear strange noises or feel vibrations while driving. If left unchecked, this could lead to a more serious problem where the joint separates or the ball joint stud breaks, which could make your vehicle harder to control and increase the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will inspect the pinches bolts on your steering knuckle and tighten them as needed, free of charge. If you don't get the repair done within a reasonable time, you should contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE LOOSE PINCH BOLTS THAT SECURE THE LOWER CONTROL ARM TO THE STEERING KNUCKLE HAVE BEEN REPORTED.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
LOOSE PINCH BOLTS COULD EXHIBIT NOISE, VIBRATION AND, IN EXTREME CASES IF LEFT UNCORRECTED, SEPARATION OF THE JOINT OR FRACTURE OF THE BALL JOINT STUD, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING KNUCKLE PINCH BOLT FOR TIGHTNESS AND CORRECT AS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
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Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →