Investigation RQ06009: 2001–2004 Buick Rendezvous

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Dec 14, 2006

Closed

Apr 18, 2007

Model years

2001–2004

Subject

Fuel tank leakage

Component: Fuel system, gasoline

Summary

Certain subject vehicles may exhibit leakage of odor and/or fuelfrom the lower portion of the fuel tank inlet filler pipe (inlet check valve).the inlet check valve (icv) and the fuel tank are joined together using a hot plate welding process for plastic parts.gm reports that its analysis of field returned parts show evidence of process variations for different manufacturing periods.these variations produced some icv to fuel tank joints with poor melt flow lines.odi's analysis of gm's warranty claim data finds more frequent fuel tank replacements in the hotter climate states.this investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-006) to further assess this matter.

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

• 2004 Buick Rendezvous200 complaints
• 2003 Buick Rendezvous281 complaints
• 2002 Buick Rendezvous486 complaints