Investigation RQ03003: 1992 Chevrolet Lumina APV

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jan 8, 2003

Closed

Apr 10, 2003

Model years

1992

Subject

Engine cradle separation

Component: Structure › Frame and members

Summary

In april 1997, gm notified odi of a rear engine cradle bolt defect in certain model year (my) 1990-91 u vans and my 1988-91 w cars that could result in separation of the steering intermediate shaft from the steering gear.gm identified the problem as excessive crevice corrosion of the engine cradle retainer after years of exposure in a severe corrosive environment.the recall covered approximately 680,000 vehicles registered in 14 rust belt states; including almost 70,000 my 1990-91 u vans.the recalled vehicles received new rear cradle bolts and retainers. Gm changed the material composition of the retainers in the my 1992 u vans to provide improved corrosion resistance.the my 1992 retainers are aluminized steel with a 2.5 mm protective coating of zinc/chromate organic.there have been only five (5) failures identified in the subject vehicles after more than 10 years of exposure.based on the low failure rate and the age of the vehicles, there is no evidence of a safety defect trend in the subject vehicles. This recall query is closed.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 1992 Chevrolet Lumina APV76 complaints