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Happy New Year: Auto Makers November 2003 Recall List Includes; BMW X5; BMW R: Chrysler Sebring ;Dodge Stratus; Jeep Liberty; Chrysler Pacifica; Ford Freeestar; Mercury Monterey; Ford Windstar; Ford Crown Victoria; Ford Focus; Buick Rendezvous; Pontiac Aztek; Buick Park Avenue; Mitsubishi Galant , Eclipse, Eclipse Spyder; Nissan FX35, Sentra; Volvo XC90, V40, S40; Plus Chassis from Fleetwood, Oilfilters from ArvinMeritor; Child Seats from Dorel Juvenile Group and Safeline Kids

NHTSA Publishes List of October, November 2003 Recalls

List Includes; BMW X5; BMW R: Chrysler Sebring ;Dodge Stratus; Jeep Liberty; Chrysler Pacifica; Ford Freeestar; Mercury Monterey; Ford Windstar; Ford Crown Victoria; Ford Focus; Buick Rendezvous; Pontiac Aztek; Buick Park Avenue; Mitsubishi Galant , Eclipse, Eclipse Spyder; Nissan FX35, Sentra; Volvo XC90, V40, S40; Plus Chassis from Fleetwood, Oilfilters from ArvinMeritor; Child Seats from Dorel Juvenile Group and

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today released a list of auto safety recalls announced in October and November 2003 and urged consumers to have the problems fixed promptly.

This list identifies the make and model of the vehicle or equipment involved, with a brief description of the safety problem.

NHTSA said it is publicizing the recalls to alert consumers about safety problems and encourages them to take action. Under federal law, safety problems must be remedied without cost to consumers. Currently, 72 percent of the owners of vehicles with safety problems have the recall work performed.

NHTSA said manufacturers are required to mail a recall notice to all purchasers, owners, and dealers when a safety defect or noncompliance with federal safety standards is found. The agency urges owners to wait until they receive notification from the manufacturer before contacting their dealers to schedule the repair work. Not all vehicles of a particular make and model may be subject to the recall.

Consumers can get up-to-the-minute information on safety recall campaigns, or information on the recall history of a particular make and model of car, truck, motorcycle, or child safety seat, by calling the agency's toll-free Auto Safety Hotline, 888-327-4236, or by accessing NHTSA on the Internet at www.nhtsa.dot.gov. The Hotline also can be used to report safety problems.

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SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGNS November 2003

VEHICLES:

CARS, VANS, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS AND MOTORCYCLES

Bayerische Motoren Werke Models: BMW X5 Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 350 Dates of Manufacture: September – October 2003 Defect: On certain passenger cars, the bolts that hold the front differential, the right output shaft housing flange at the engine, and the right-hand engine support may be insufficiently tightened. With prolonged driving, these bolts could become loose and cause damage to the engine and transmission housings. The right output shaft could become disconnected, affecting the ability to control the vehicle, which could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will inspect and retighten the drivetrain fasteners. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V475]

Bayerische Motoren Werke Models: BMW R Model Motorcycle Year: 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 7,000 Dates of Manufacture: December 2002 – August 2003 Defect: On certain motorcycles (Opposed Twins w/Two-Spark Ignition), the electrical wiring for the oxygen sensor and the ignition lead for the right-hand secondary spark plug have a parallel routing over part of their installation path. The close proximity of these cables may allow the signal from the ignition lead to interfere with the signal from the oxygen sensor wiring. As a result, engine hesitation or misfiring could occur, which could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will re-route the electrical wiring to the oxygen sensor. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117, Option #4.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V483]

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Models: Chrysler Sebring Year: 2004 Dodge Stratus Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 4,907 Dates of Manufacture: July – September 2003 Defect: On certain passenger vehicles, the fuel return line hose fitting on the electric fuel pump may be restricted, causing excessive fuel pressure to build up in the fuel injection system. Excessive fuel pressure may result in a leak in the fuel return hose. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the fuel pump pressure. Those vehicles exhibiting higher than normal fuel pump pressure will receive fuel pump modifications. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V443]

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Models: Jeep Liberty Years: 2002-2003 Number Potentially Involved: 336,000 Dates of Manufacture: January 2001 – March 2003 Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, the lower control arm ball joints can experience a loss of lubrication that can lead to corrosion, accelerated wear, and possible separation from the steering knuckle. A ball joint that has separated from the knuckle could result in loss of vehicle directional control and could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will replace the front lower control arm ball joints with modified assemblies and heat shields on vehicles built between January 2, 2001 and October 4, 2002. On vehicles built between October 5, 2002 and March 26, 2003, dealers will inspect the ball joint assemblies (and replace them as necessary) and install heat shields. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners may contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V460/DaimlerChrysler Recall No. C36]

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Models: Chrysler Pacifica Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 9,579 Dates of Manufacture: Prior to April 16, 2003 Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, the chassis fuel supply tube may have been incorrectly manufactured. Under certain engine and vehicle dynamic conditions, the fuel line may separate, resulting in a fuel leak and an increased risk of a vehicle fire. Remedy: Dealers will install a secondary retention clip to the fuel line quick connect. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V471/DaimlerChrysler Recall No. C34]

Ford Motor Company Models: Ford Freestar Year: 2004 Mercury Monterey Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 23,996 Dates of Manufacture: March – October 2003 Defect: On certain minivans, the power steering low-pressure line may not be fully seated at the rack and pinion steering gear. If this line becomes disconnected, it may create the potential for fluid to come into contact with the exhaust system, which could result in smoke or fire. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the power steering low-pressure line to ensure that it is seated properly at the rack and pinion steering gear. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began November 10, 2003. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V457/Ford Recall No. 03S09]

Ford Motor Company Models: Ford Windstar Years: 2001-2003 Number Potentially Involved: 257,119 Dates of Manufacture: March 2001 – November 2002 Noncompliance: Certain minivans fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems." During testing, a third row bench floor-to-seat latch released before the strength requirement was met. If the latches on the second or third row seats of the vehicle release in a crash, the potential for occupant injury is increased. Remedy: Dealers will replace the lower seat-to-floor latches on the second and third row of seats. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V459/Ford Recall No. 03C05]

Ford Motor Company Models: Ford Crown Victoria Years: 1996-2003 Number Potentially Involved: 4,218 Defect: On certain natural gas vehicles, if a flame from a vehicle interior fire becomes locally directed at the natural gas fuel tank located immediately behind the rear seat, the flame could damage the fiberglass wrap on the tank, weakening the tank. If the strength of the tank is significantly compromised, it could rupture. Remedy: Dealers will install an insulator behind the current seat back. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during January 2004. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V472/Ford Recall No. 03S08]

Ford Motor Company Models: Ford Focus Years: 2000-2001 Number Potentially Involved: 671,000 Problem: On certain passenger vehicles, contamination of the filter in the fuel delivery module (FDM) can reduce, and eventually block, the flow of fuel to the engine. This can cause engine hesitation, loss of power, surging, and other similar symptoms. Over time, the filter may become sufficiently blocked to cause the engine to stall, which could result in a crash. Remedy: Ford has not determined that a safety-related defect exists in these vehicles, and it will not automatically replace the FDMs in all of the covered vehicles. All owners will be notified of the problem, and dealers will replace the FDM with a new design at no charge if the owner reports that the vehicle exhibits any of the identified symptoms. The free replacement will be available for a period of 10 years following the original purchase of the vehicle, with no mileage limit. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V482/Ford Recall No. 03N01]

General Motors Corporation Models: Buick Rendezvous Year: 2004 Pontiac Aztek Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 79 Dates of Manufacture: September 2003 Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, a weld between the fuel tank inlet check valve and the fuel tank can fail. If these parts separate, the driver may notice an odor of fuel, the Service Engine Soon or Check Engine light may illuminate, and/or fuel may leak onto the ground. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the serial number of the fuel tank to see if it is on the list of affected tanks. If the serial number matches, the fuel tank will be replaced. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began November 11, 2003. Owners may contact Buick at 1-866-608-8080, or Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V454/GM Recall No. 03055]

General Motors Corporation Models: Buick Park Avenue Years: 1998-1999 Number Potentially Involved: 95,690 Dates of Manufacture: October 2001 – June 2002 Defect: Certain passenger vehicles equipped with 3800 V6 (L36) engines and certain Delphi fuel pressure regulators have a much higher than usual rate of fuel pressure regulator diaphragm leaks. A leak can allow fuel to enter the intake manifold through a vacuum line. If the engine does not start when cranked, the fuel from the leaking regulator and a mistimed spark can cause a backfire. The backfire can rupture the intake manifold. The rupture of the intake manifold can displace a fuel line, pulling an injector out of place, and causing a fuel leak and possible fire. Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel pressure regulators with improved diaphragms. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during January 2004. Owners may contact Buick at 1-866-608-8080.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V473/GM Recall No. 03054]

Mitsubishi Motors North America Models: Mitsubishi Eclipse Year: 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Year: 2004 Mitsubishi Galant Year: 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 11,896 Dates of Manufacture: July – September 2003 Defect: On certain passenger vehicles, the fuel return line hose fitting on the electric fuel pump may be restricted, causing excessive fuel pressure to build up in the fuel injection system. Excessive fuel pressure may result in a leak in the fuel return hose. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the fuel pump pressure. Those vehicles exhibiting higher than normal fuel pump pressure will receive fuel pump modifications. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-800-222-0037 or Mitsubishi Caribbean at 1-800-981-0452.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V442]

Nissan North America, Inc. Models: Infiniti FX35 Year: 2003 Infiniti FX 45 Year: 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 24,300 Dates of Manufacture: November 2002 – July 2003 Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, the front brake caliper mounting bolts may not be adequately tightened. This could result in one or both of the caliper mounting bolts loosening. If this occurs, it would allow the caliper to rotate or separate from its mounting bracket. This could cause the brake to fail, reducing the vehicle’s ability to stop. It could also damage the wheel, causing the tire to go flat. Either one of these conditions could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will tighten the front brake caliper mounting bolts to ensure that they are secure. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during January 2004. Owners may contact Infiniti at 1-800-662-6200.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V476]

Nissan North America, Inc. Models: Nissan Sentra Years: 2000-2003 Number Potentially Involved: 276,000 Dates of Manufacture: January 2000 – March 2003 Defect: On certain MY 2000-2002 passenger vehicles equipped with the QG18DE engine and MY 2002-2003 passenger vehicles equipped with QR25DE engines, the foam material used for the interior lining of the Electronic Control Module (ECM) box emits sulfur as it cures. If one of the resistors inside the ECM has a crack on the surface coating, the gas may cause corrosion of the resistor. This could cause the Malfunction Indictor Light to come on, poor drivability (idle instability, poor accelerator), or the engine to stop running during vehicle operation, which could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will remove the inside lining material from the ECM box. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V477]

Volvo Cars of N. A., LLC Models: Volvo XC90 Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 2,586 Dates of Manufacture: March – April 2003 Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, the front wheel speed sensors may be defective, causing an erroneous wheel speed signal. This can adversely affect a number of vehicle functions, including brake, engine, transmission, and torque distribution control, which relay on this signal for proper operation. Remedy: Dealers will replace the front wheel sensors. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V434/Volvo Recall No. R127A]

Volvo Cars of N. A., LLC Models: Volvo S40 Year: 2000 Volvo V40 Year: 2000 Number Potentially Involved: 36,000 Dates of Manufacture: May 1999 – May 2000 Defect: On certain passenger vehicles, water can enter the electrical brake vacuum pump, causing the pump to fail, resulting in loss of power assist and an increase in needed brake pedal force, which could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will replace the pump with a new and improved version and move the pump to a new location. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners may contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V474/Volvo Recall No. R129]

MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS, SCHOOL BUSES AND MOTOR HOMES

Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc. Models: Fleetwood Mallard Year: 2004 Fleetwood Pioneer Year: 2004 Fleetwood Prowler Year: 2004 Fleetwood Terry Year: 2004 Fleetwood Wilderness Year: 2004 Fleetwood Pride Years: 2002-2004 Fleetwood Triumph Years: 2002-20044 Number Potentially Involved: 4,933 Dates of Manufacture: January 2002 – May 2003 Defect: On certain conventional and fifth wheel travel trailers, the owner manuals either do not contain the wheel lug nut torque information or contain incorrect wheel lug nut torque information for the optional "aluminum wheel." Vehicle operation without the proper torque applied to the wheel lug nuts could result in the lug nuts becoming loose and a wheel separation that could result in a crash. Remedy: Owners will be provided with a label and insert to be added to the Owner’s Manual. If the vehicle has the "aluminum wheel" option, owners are requested to bring their vehicle into a dealer to have the wheel lug nuts tightened to the proper specifications. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Fleetwood at 1-800-445-3307.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V437/Fleetwood Recall No. 31028]

EQUIPMENT:

ArvinMeritor/Intercontinental Models: Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters Number Potentially Involved: 12,240 Dates of Manufacture: September 2002 – January 2003 Defect: Aftermarket replacement fuel filters may experience malfunction of the quick connector, either blocking fuel flow to the engine or causing a fuel leak. If this condition occurred while the vehicle is in motion, the engine could stall. Also, in the presence of an ignition source, the fuel leak could result in a vehicle fire. These aftermarket replacement fuel filters are used on 1995 through 2000 Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, and Dodge Caravan minivans. Part numbers and date codes for the involved filters may be found on the NHTSA Recall web site by searching for the recall number 03E058000. Remedy: Owners who have had the fuel filter replaced on one of the applicable vehicles any time after September 17, 2002, should return their vehicle to the service facility to be inspected to see if the fuel filter is one that is involved in the recall. If the filter is involved, the owners must have the filter replaced. Owners will receive a full refund plus the cost of postage, if they cut the connectors from the hoses, rinse the connectors in water, and return them together with proof of the amount paid for the replacement part and labor, to Intercontinental Auto Parts, Inc., P.O. Box 861, Mahwah, NJ 07430, Attn: Fuel Filter Recall. Intercontinental will mail a full refund to the owner. Owners can contact Intercontinental at 201-529-1988. NOTE: This recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement fuel filters and has no relation to any original equipment installed on Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, or Dodge Caravan minivans or any other products manufactured by the DaimlerChrysler Corporation.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03E058]

CHILD RESTRAINTS:

Dorel Juvenile Group Models: Dorel High Rise Number Potentially Involved: 27,800 Dates of Manufacture: October 2003 Defect: Certain child restraints, Model Nos. 22-297-WAL, 22-298-STM, 22-299-NAN, and 93-299-FSM, contain misprinted labels. The manufacturer intended to recommend that the forward-facing mode should be used for children "over 1 year of age" and inadvertently printed "under 1 year of age." If the consumer were to follow the incorrect instructions, the seat may not adequately restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash, possibly causing injuries to the child. Remedy: Owners will provide the consumers with a corrected label. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact Dorel at 1-812-372-0141.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03C010]

Safeline Kids, Inc. Models: Safeline Sit’N’Stroll Model 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 10,495 Dates of Manufacture: September 2002 – October 2003 Noncompliance: Certain rear-facing and forward-facing convertible child restraints fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213, "Child Restraint Systems." When the seat is secured in the vehicle using the lower forward-facing belt path or when the shoulder and buckle pads included with the restraint are used, forces during a crash could cause the child’s head to move forward further than allowed by the standard. The shoulder and buckle pads may interfere with the harness becoming properly snug. There is an increased risk of head injury to a child occupant in the event of a crash. Remedy: Safeline Kids will mail repair instructions and a revised Owner’s Manual. Owners are being asked to remove and discard the shoulder and buckle pads from the harness before continuing to use the seat. Also, owners should only use the upper forward-facing belt path. There is no problem when the seat is used in the rear-facing position for children weighing less than 20 pounds. Owners may contact Safeline Kids at 1-800-829-1625, between 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Mountain Standard Time, Monday through Thursday, and from 8:30 am to 3 pm on Fridays. Safeline Kids can also be contacted at Service@SafelineKids.com.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03C009]

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SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGNS October 2003

VEHICLES:

CARS, VANS, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS AND MOTORCYCLES

American Honda Motor Company, Inc. Models: Honda CR-V Year: 2002 Number Potentially Involved: 76,988 Dates of Manufacture: May 2001 – September 2002 Defect: On some sport utility vehicles, metal particles in the key cylinder body could interfere with the interlock lever operation, making it possible to remove the ignition key without shifting the transmission to "Park." If the vehicle operator does not shift to "Park" before removing the key and fails to engage the parking brake, the vehicle could roll and a crash could occur. Remedy: Dealers will inspect and test ignition switches for contamination interference. Any switches that fail the test will be repaired. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V422]

American Honda Motor Company, Inc. Models: Acura CL Years: 1997-1999 Acura TL Year: 1999 Honda Accord Years: 1998-1999 Honda Odyssey Year: 1999 Number Potentially Involved: 570,120 Dates of Manufacture: July 1997 – February 1999 Defect: On some passenger vehicles and minivans, the ignition switch may wear excessively and prevent proper interlock operation, making it possible to turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position and remove the key without shifting the transmission to "Park." If the vehicle operator does not shift to "Park" before removing the key and fails to engage the parking brake, the vehicle could roll and a crash could occur. Remedy: Dealers will perform an inspection procedure that determines the amount of cylinder body wear. If significant wear is indicated, the dealer will replace the cylinder body, collar, and latch plate. If no signs of wear are indicated, dealers will replace the latch plate with a redesigned part. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009 or Acura at 1-800-382-2238.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V423]

American Suzuki Motor Corporation Models: Suzuki Verona Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 6,028 Dates of Manufacture: June – October 2003 Defect: On certain passenger cars, the dual stage driver’s air bag can deploy in an improper sequence. If the driver’s air bag deploys improperly during a frontal vehicle crash, the driver could be severely injured or killed. Remedy: Dealers will install an adapting wiring harness. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Suzuki at 1-800-934-0934.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V426/Suzuki Recall No. KB]

Bayerische Motoren Werke Models: BMW 5 Series Year: 2001 Number Potentially Involved: 23,000 Dates of Manufacture: January – August 2001 Defect: On certain passenger cars, a microprocessor in the air bag control module, which activates the front air bags, the side air bags, the front seat safety belt pretensioners, and the Battery Safety Terminal, may have a malfunction that could lead to an unintended activation of one or more of these components. Unexpected deployment of the air bag(s) could cause serious injury if an occupant is too close to the deploying air bag(s). In addition, the Battery Safety Terminal may also be activated. If that happens, the starter cable would become disconnected from the battery, and the engine could not be restarted. Remedy: Dealers will replace the air bag control module. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V421]

Bentley Motors, Inc. Models: Bentley Arnage R Years: 2002-2004 Bentley Arnage RL Years: 2003-2004 Bentley Arnage T Years: 2002-2004 Bentley Arnage LWB Years: 2002-2004 Bentley Arnage Limousine Years: 2002-2004 Number Potentially Involved: 343 Dates of Manufacture: February 2002 – July 2003 Defect: On certain passenger and limousine vehicles, contact can occur between a brake pipe, fuel pipe and the antilock braking system (ABS) modulator pump. Should this happen, it could result in eventual abrasive damage to either pipe, leading to possible leakage. This could affect the stopping distance when the brakes are applied, which could result in a crash, or a fire could result if there is leakage from the fuel line. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the installation of the affected components and, if necessary, replace it with a new one. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began October 7, 2003. Owners may contact Bentley at 1-800-777-6923.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V367/Bentley Recall No. RE03/03]

Buell Motorcycle Company Models: Buell X1 Lightning Years: 1999-2000 Buell S3 Thunderbolt Years: 1999-2000 Buell S3T Thunderbolt Year: 2000 Number Potentially Involved: 2,830 Dates of Manufacture: Before June 15, 1999 Defect: On certain motorcycles equipped exclusively with a fuel injection system, the idle control cable can become dislodged from the fuel injection system cable guide due to improper adjustment of the throttle control system. Should this occur, the throttle may not return to the idle position when the operator’s hand is removed from the twist grip, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle, which could result in a crash. Remedy: Dealers will install a throttle cable clamp, which serves to ensure retention of the throttle control cables in the cable guide. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November or December 2003. Owners may contact Buell at 1-414-343-8400.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V427/Buell Recall No. 0827]

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Models: Dodge Viper Year: 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 1,739 Dates of Manufacture: August 2002 – August 2003 Defect: On certain passenger vehicles, the multifunction switch park lamp contacts may corrode. The multifunction switch parking light contacts could cause the head lights, parking lights, and/or instrument panel lamps to flicker or become inoperative. This could affect driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy: Dealers will reflash the software in the Body Control Module. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during December 2003. Owners may contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V388/DaimlerChrysler Recall No. C33]

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Models: Dodge Dakota Years: 2001-2003 Number Potentially Involved: 50,082 Dates of Manufacture: July 2000 – July 2003 Defect: On certain pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions, the headlamp and dash wiring harness may be chafed by the actuation of the clutch pedal. This could result in abnormal operation of the wipers, turn signals, horn, or lighting systems. This could affect driver visibility, could prevent a driver from sounding a warning by using the horn, and, when the turn signals are inoperative, the driver cannot use them to signal intent to turn, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy: Dealers will reroute the wire harness and repair the harness if necessary. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began on November 3, 2003. Owners may contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V389/DaimlerChrysler Recall No. C35]

Kawasaki Motors Corporation, U.S.A. Models: Kawasaki ZX600 K1/K1L Year: 2003 Kawasaki ZX636 B1/B1L Year: 2003 Kawasaki ZX636 B2 Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 11,018 Dates of Manufacture: November 2002 – July 2003 Defect: On certain motorcycles, the welds securing the muffler to its clamp could fail from vibration, allowing the muffler to separate from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the muffler and install a rubber damper. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Kawasaki at 1-866-802-9381.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V387/Kawasaki Recall No. MC03-11]

Toyota Motor North America Inc. Models: Toyota Corolla Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 381 Dates of Manufacture: July 1998 – July 2001 Defect: On certain passenger vehicles equipped with factory aluminum alloy wheels, the lug nut(s) may not secure the wheel properly to the hub assembly due to over-drilling of one or more of the five lug nut holes on the alloy wheel. If the vehicle is driven for an extended period in this condition, the lug nut(s) could potentially loosen. In the worst case, the stud bolt(s) may fracture, which may result in the separation of the wheel from the hub assembly and lead to a loss of vehicle control. Remedy: Dealers will inspect all four factory aluminum alloy wheels and, if necessary, replace any found to be out of specifications. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began on October 27, 2003. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V366/Toyota Recall No. 30L]

Triumph Motorcycles (America) Models: Triumph Daytona 600 Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 602 Dates of Manufacture: January – May 2003 Defect: On certain motorcycles, the rear brake clevis pin clip may rotate while engaging the rear brake, preventing the pedal from fully returning to the original rest position. The rear brake could drag, creating excessive heat or premature brake pad wear, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear brake retaining clip. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began on October 27, 2003. Owners may contact Triumph at 1-678-854-2010.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V409/Triumph Recall No. 328]

Volvo Cars of N. A., LLC Models: Volvo XC90 Years: 2003-2004 Number Potentially Involved: 18,692 Dates of Manufacture: April 2002 – April 2003 Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, the seat belt attachment(s) for the second and third row seat(s) may not have been fitted properly. In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury. Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair, if necessary, the second and third row seat belt attachments. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners may contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V391/Volvo Recall No. R127]

Volvo Cars of N. A., LLC Models: Volvo S40 Years: 2003-2004 Volvo V40 Years: Years: 2003-2004 Number Potentially Involved: 15,067 Dates of Manufacture: May 2002 – May 2003 Defect: On certain passenger vehicles, there may be a fuel leak from the fuel rail due to inadequate welding. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. Remedy: Dealers will install a V-clamp to the fuel rail. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners may contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V424/Volvo Recall No. R128]

MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS, SCHOOL BUSES AND MOTOR HOMES

Blue Bird Body Company Models: Blue Bird All American Years: 2001-2004 Number Potentially Involved: 233 Dates of Manufacture: October 2002 – August 2003 Defect: On certain school buses, the type and location of fasteners used to retain the seat belt in the last row of seats does not conform to Blue Bird engineering specifications. This installation may not adequately retain the seat belts in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant. Remedy: Dealers will furnish the parts and instructions necessary to install the correct fasteners. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V362/Blue Bird Recall No. R03HC]

Blue Bird Body Company Models: Blue Bird All American Years: 1999-2004 Blue Bird TC2000 Years: 1991-2000 Number Potentially Involved: 8,088 Dates of Manufacture: August 1990 – August 2003 Noncompliance: Certain school buses fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, "School Bus Body Joint Strength." One or more of the bolts attaching the driver’s platform to the floor structure was omitted. Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the affected units. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V363/Blue Bird Recall No. R03GZ]

Blue Bird Body Company Models: Blue Bird TC2000 Years: 2001-2004 Blue Bird All American Years: 2001-2004 Blue Bird Conventional Years: 2001-2004 Number Potentially Involved: 3,825 Dates of Manufacture: August 2000 – August 2003 Defect: On certain school buses equipped with optional seat belts or seat belt "ready" seats, some belts were installed with only two (2) bolts rather than the required three (3) bolts. These seats could detach from the wall side attachment points in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant. Remedy: Dealers will furnish the parts and instructions necessary to install the missing bolt. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began on November 3, 2003. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V364/Blue Bird Recall No. R03HB]

Blue Bird Body Company Models: Blue Bird Vision Year: 2004 Number Potentially Involved: 401 Dates of Manufacture: June – September 2003 Defect: On certain school buses, the bus bar that connects the ammeter shunt to the engine\intake grid heater megafuse was incorrectly installed. This can create excessive electrical resistance and potential overheating in the grid heater power circuit, increasing the risk of a fire. Remedy: Dealers will furnish the parts and instructions necessary to correct this defect. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V401/Blue Bird Recall No. R03HE]

Gillig Corporation Models: Gillig Low Floor Years: 1997-2002 Number Potentially Involved: 2,201 Dates of Manufacture: October 1997 – December 2002 Defect: On certain buses, the electrical connection assembly in the engine compartment could come loose. This could cause electrical shorting, arcing, and possible fire. Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine compartment wiring for correct cable assembly, fastener torque, and correct wire protection. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Gillig at 1-510-785-1500.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V392]

Girardin Minibus, Inc. Models: Girardin MBII Year: 2003 Girardin MBIV Year: 2003 Number Potentially Involved: 46 Dates of Manufacture: August – September 2003 Noncompliance: Certain school buses equipped with Beam’s Industries’ seat belts fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies." The metal frame of the seat belt buckle may fracture due to possible embrittlement of the steel. In the event of a crash, the buckle may unlatch, resulting in possible injury or death to the seat occupant. Remedy: Beam Industries is contacting Girardin owners and will provide them with the remedy and installation instructions. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners may contact Beam at 1-888-343-9266 or Girardin at 1-819-477-8222.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03V365/Girardin Recall No. 03-005-SB]

EQUIPMENT:

Harley-Davidson Motor Company Models: Oil Cooler Kit Number Potentially Involved: 6,000 Defect: Certain oil cooler kits, Part No. 62868-998, used on Touring motorcycles, have a hose that may rub on the engine crankcase. This condition could cause the hose to abrade over time, causing oil leakage. This could lead to a loss of traction, possibly without warning, and could cause a crash. Remedy: Dealers will replace the hose. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners should contact Harley-Davidson at 1-414-342-4680.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03E051]

Ironwood Pacific, Inc. Models: Stowaway2 Cargo Carrier Number Potentially Involved: 1,000 Dates of Manufacture: February – July 2003 Defect: On certain cargo carriers, Models 022.3, 022.3W, 025.3, and 022.9, the roller bearings on the latching mechanism can break. If the bearing breaks, the carrier could swing out into traffic. Remedy: Dealers will provide each owner with a retrofit ramp kit that will prevent the latch from disengaging. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners should contact Ironwood at 1-800-943-5377.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03E052]

Wix Filteration Products Division/Dana Corporation Models: Carquest Fuel Filter NAPA Fuel Filter WIX Fuel Filter 33576/33577/33734 Number Potentially Involved: 68,563 Defect: Certain aftermarket fuel filters, Carquest Nos. 86734, 86576, 86577; NAPA Nos. 3734, 3576, 3577; and WIX Nos. 33734, 33576, and 33577, can develop a leak where the fuel lines are attached. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. Remedy: Fuel filters will be replaced free of charge. Owners should contact Wix at 1-704-864-6711.

[NHTSA Recall No. 03E053]