Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TURN SIGNAL | ||||||||||||||||
| 04V524000 | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. | from 04/01/2002 to 08/31/2003 | V (Vehicle) | 256025 | 01/18/2005 | ODI | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. | 11/01/2004 | 11/03/2004 | |||||||
| Defect Summary | On certain passenger vehicles, the rear lamps that provide stop and turn signals and tail lamp functions stop working because of inadequate contact between the bulb and socket. in addition, if one bulbs were to become inoperative while the vehicle was operating in cruise control, the cruise control would disengage when the remaining bulb was activated. if both lamps were to become inoperative, the cruise control would not engage. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | An inoperative brake lamp will not convey the driver's intention of stopping to drivers in following vehicles, and an inoperative rear turn signal lamp will not convey the driver | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Dealers will inspect the rear lamp bulb socket assemblies and apply grease or replace them if necessary. the recall began on january 18, 2005. owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or pontiac at 1-800-620-7668. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Gm recall no.04083.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration?s auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236). | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | |||||
| 3054 | 01/01/2004 | 3054A | 10009594 | 04-08-42-004a. additional information. left or right tail lamp, brake lamp or turn signal is inoperative. *tt | 10/08/2004 |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HEADLIGHTS | |||||
| 3170E | 10019186 | Ipc, interior lights and/or headlamps flicker. *ak fb2 | 02/16/2006 | ||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TAIL LIGHTS | |||||
| 071503 | 07/15/2003 | 10003790 | Servicing the rear tail lamp bulb or socket assembly. *tt | 10/31/2003 | |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TURN SIGNAL | |||||
| 04083 | 01/01/2005 | 10013519 | Rear stop/turn signal lamps inoperative. product safety recall. *tt | 04/20/2005 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TURN SIGNAL | ||||||
| PE04043 | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. | 05/14/2004 | 09/14/2004 | TURN SIGNAL MALFUNCTION | ||
| Complainants allege that the rear turn signals fail to illuminate and do not provide a signal to drivers in following vehicles.odi has received one report of a crash where the complainant braked and attempted to make a left turn and the following vehicle impacted the complainant's vehicle in the driver-side door.in may 2002, gm's supplier made changes to the bulb socket that included stopping the use of thermal-mastic grease in the bulb socket.gm reports that the grease reduces arcing at the contacts and dissipates heat thus preventing melting of the socket material or burning of the contacts.most of the subject vehicles were produced without grease applied to the bulb socket.in june 2003, gm directed the supplier to resume the use of grease in the socket.gm issued technical service bulletin (tsb) 04-08-42-004a on july 15, 2004 advising technicians to make sure that adequate amounts of grease were added to the bulb sockets on all service parts.odi will upgrade this investigation to ea 04-028 to further examine the issue. | ||||||
| EA04028 | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. | 09/14/2004 | 11/22/2004 | TURN SIGNAL MALFUNCTION | 04V524000 | |
| On may 14, 2004 the office of defects investigation (odi) opened a preliminary evaluation (pe04-043) based on consumer complaints alleging that the brake/tail turn signal lamps would not operate properly when either the tail lights were turned on, the brake pedal was depressed, or when the turn signal switch was activated.on september 14, 2004 odi upgraded pe 04-043 to an engineering analysis (ea04-028).gm states that some brake/tail/turn signal lamp bulbs can prematurely become inoperative due to excessive heat buildup within the bulb sockets.the cause of the excessive heat build up was determined to be a lack of thermal grease placed in between the bulb and the socket. by letter dated october 27, 2004 gm notified nhtsa that it will conduct a safety recall (nhtsa # 04v524) covering all my 2003 vehicles.gm dealers will inspect the rear lamp bulb socket assemblies and apply thermal grease to them or replace them with new assemblies with thermal grease already attached.model year 2004 and newer vehicles have the thermal grease installed from the factory. the action taken by gm is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.accordingly, this investigation is closed. | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | |||
| 02/08/2011 | 168000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet cavalier. the contact stated the lower brake light does not work. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated they previously repair the failure under the recall nhtsa campaign id number: 04v524000; component: exterior lighting: turn signal. although the failure occurrs again he would have to pay for the new repairs. they will not be covered under the recall. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 168,000....mw | |||
| 09/13/2009 | 140000 | 1 | |
| The tail light/turn signal burned on the driver's side about 2 months ago i replaced the bulb 2 days later the passenger side went out i replaced that bulb and since that about every 2 days i burn another bulb i took it to the dealership thinking it was the recall they have on the tail light/turn signal and the dealership inspected it the first time and said nothing was wrong the second time this week i took it back with the bulb burned out and they said there was no problems found i can't get them to do the recall work because they say there is no problems with the lights but i am paying 4.00 a bulb everytime it burns out and i have done this for 2 months now and i guess i will have to keep doing this i don't know what else to do. *tr | |||
| 05/03/2009 | 105000 | 1 | |
| The campaign 04083 was performed on my vehicle, but it didn't fix my problem. the chevrolet service mechanic advised that they checked the sockets, found that they did not need to be replaced and greased accordingly, but that the turn signals are inoperative at times due to the fact the turn signal switch is bad & needs to be replaced to get them to work all of the time. i have all of the same issues that this campaign indicated it would resolve, but my turn signals are still going out sporadically, and it occurs more often if my lights are turned on and if i press down the break. i've been having to replace my break lights often and this started occurring the last time i had my left break light replaced a few months ago. the turn signal works at least the first time i put it on, but then will not flashing & stop making noise shortly after before i've even made my turn. the first problem arose with my blinkers flashing very quickly which was resolved after replacing my break light, but i've had problems on and off with my turn signals ever since. my 2003 chevy cavalier has 105,517 miles on it. *tr | |||
| 12/23/2008 | 1 | ||
| I have went through over 10 bulbs in my back tail-light on the driver side. every time i go out and about it blows and when i pull the bulb out the plastic is always melted over the contact wires. recently i was on my way to my girlfriend's family's christmas event and i got pulled over for my tail light being out, which had been replaced a few days before. i showed the police and he only gave me a warning, although i am getting sick of this happening. i went into an advance auto parts store to just go ahead and replace the entire socket, but when they called a chevrolet dealership all they recommended that i do is replace the bulb, again. i replaced the bulb and what do you know it blew within 3 days. i am still currently in the process of trying to figure out how to fix this inconvenient problem before i just sell my car to get a better one. *tr | |||
| 10/27/2008 | 62000 | 1 | |
| The car has been in two accidents. the both were completely repaired, the rear lights have had problems due to poor connections and the fuel pump went out. *tr | |||
| 06/15/2005 | 24154 | 1 | |
| I have had a recall fixed twice on the brake lights, turn signals, tail lights all in the trunk for the rear lights well i am having the same problem on the recall 2 years later after contacting mccluskey chevrolet about this problem they tell me it is a 12 month, 12,000 mile warranty issue on a recall by general motors. apparently it was fixed only temporarily how can the same work being done twice for a recall have a time stipulation? the fuel pump went out directly after i had 36,100 miles only 100 miles over my warranty. now i have a short in the driver side motor for my driver window, they want $375.00 to fix one window. i understand cavaliers are garbage that's why they quit making them, but they don't tell you that when they want you to finance one. *tr | |||
| 01/27/2005 | 8009 | 1 | 11/15/2003 |
| Dt: consumer had recall on tstop light and turn signals. consumer took vehicle to fox chevrolet for repairs, and vehicle did not have right turn signal or stop light on the passenger's side. consumer called fox chevrolet, and dealer said that he should bring vehicle in next thursday. consumer wanted to take vehicle back right away because he felt that vehicle was not safe without proper lights. he did not want to drive unsafe vehicle for a week.*ak *nm | |||
| 05/28/2004 | 4 | ||
| I purchased a 2003 chevrolet cavalier from fred diehl motors of philsipburg, pa (814-342-3223). i am having problems with the rear brake lights and now all rear lighting. fist the car was serviced at valley tires who replaced the bulb lamps. *ak second, fred diehls replaced the left side socket and tightened the right bulb. the third time, i was stopped by local police for no brake lights. fred diehls replaced both the sockets and bulbs because of a short in the system. i called general motors woth a complaint (customer relationship manager alvin johnson 1-866-942-4368 ext. 47590). mr. johnson sent me a letter april 20 stating they would make the repairs up to 75,000 miles. on may 28, 2004, i was involved in an accident. there were no injuries, but the vehicle was damaged. i signaled and applied my brakes to make a left turn. a flat bed truck behind me started to pass me as i proceeded to turn and struck the driver's side. the man told state police there were no lights, but he was fined anyway for passing in a no passing zone. on june 1 and 2 i called gm and mr. johnson returned my call and took the accident report. on june 3, darrin tranuse of gm (1-800-231-1841 ext 58932) called me and told me to take the vehicel to the nearest chevy dealer. my brother-in-law followed me to fred diehls because i had no rear lights. they checked the car and found no lights also. they called gm and were given special orders to allow no one around the vehicle until they could look at it. i have twice called mr. tranuse but never received a return call. the had the vehicel serviced three times and the fourth time resulted in an accident. right now, i'm afraid to drive it. | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - BRAKE LIGHTS | |||
| 06/14/2008 | 62011 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet cavalier. the contact's vehicle was repaired according to nhtsa campaign id number 04v524000 (exterior lighting:turn signal) in 2006. two years later, while driving at an unknown speed, she noticed that the passenger side brake lamp and turn signal were inoperative. she repeatedly replaced the brake light bulb, but it continued to fail. the manufacturer stated that because her vehicle was previously repaired under recall, she would be responsible for the repair costs. the contact is in the process of taking the vehicle to an authorized dealer for a diagnosis and repair. the failure and current mileages were 62,011. | |||
| 03/01/2005 | 1666 | 24 | 07/17/2003 |
| Chevrolet cavalier z 2003, multiple failures. *bf the defroster would not clear the windows, the heater did not work, the air bag light illuminated because there was a split in the center of the steering wheel. when the consumer made a right turn a noise was heard. the left rear turn signal bulb was replaced, the right rear brake light bulb. there was a noise coming from the front of the vehicle, the dealer lubed the front sway bar bushing. the tires were over inflated, so the vehicle would sway when going over bumps, the blower motor, and heater control was replaced. the abs lamp illuminated. the vehicle needed brake pads. there was mold on the drivers front door. the ac compressor was replaced. the window went down extremely slow, the dealer lubed the window track and regulator. the fog light bulb was inoperative, the door latch was inoperative. *jb | |||
| 08/12/2003 | 8 | 04/01/2003 | |
| Chevrolet cavalier 2003, problem exist with the passenger side blinker/brake light continues to operate incorrectly. *bf the starter cylinder was replaced. *jb the dealer replaced the brake light bulb and blinker bulb on several occasions. | |||
| 12/01/2003 | 21000 | 7 | 06/23/2003 |
| There are numerous things, and the delaership has convinced gm, because i wrote gm about the problems with this, that i am making this stuff up to get an suv. first the radio wasn't working, they put the cable back on said it was loose, its still not sounding like a radio should. next was the popping in the front end, dealership turned rotors, under warranty back brakes squealed real loud they said it was dust i had to pay for that. back brakes still squeal, front end still pops like a bad cv joint. trunk wouldn't shut had to keep slamming it. took it back they greased it worked for awhile starting to get hard to shut sometimes. brake lights and back lights and cruise control quit working . took it to dealership at least 5 or 6 times till they finally replaced it how long it will last i don't know. front sun visor popped when it hung up in rear view mirror real floppy can't use it no more dealer said they ordered it in december. still waiting not fixed. real bad odor of gas in car when tank is half full, no explanation as to why. seat belt makes a funny noise when you are wearing it, pins you back against seat real hard. no explanation for that. have to stop and jerk on it to loosen it like a seat belt should work. dealer says i am imagining this stuff because i do not want car, bought it new still paying for it. been trying to get rid of it they have everyone convinced i am a psycho woman wanting an suv and thats why i am complaining that is all false. just plain hate a car i am paying for.*ak | |||
| 11/22/2004 | 1 | ||
| Right rear brake light and turn signal turned on intermittently which caused cruise control to work sporadically.*ak | |||
| 04/07/2003 | 300 | 3 | |
| The brake lights on the vehicle continued to go out . the dealer serviced the vehicle for the defect at least three times and it was still defective. the consumer is constantly stopped by other motorist to inform him that the lights were out. *jb | |||
| 08/20/2004 | 32000 | 2 | |
| The signal indicator and brake lights failed. *ak | |||
| 08/04/2004 | 2443 | 7 | 05/02/2003 |
| I bought a ne 2003 chevrolet cavalier on 5/2/03. it has been to the dealer 9 times for repairs. 7 of which were for brake, turn, and/or dash lights not working. originally, fuses were being blown. in 3/04, i was advised that there was a bad socket problem. in 7/04, the excuse became that they have a special grease that they have to put on the bulbs and that this was normal. i had to return my car most recently on 8/4/04 because i did not have rear brake lights or turn signals. i filed a complaint with the better business bureau. we went to arbitration on 6/8/04. chevy motor div. acknowledged that there was a safety defect with my car (brake lights) prior to it being returned to the dealer in 3/04 and faxed a copy of the bulletin they wrote in 4/04. however, they argued that they corrected the defect w/ the bulletin (verbal instructions were given on or about 3/12/04 when my car was being repaired to the service tech at the dealer re: the bulletin that wasn't in written format until 4/24/04). my arbitration was denied because my brake lights were working at the time of the arbitration so they determined that the defect had been corrected. since june, i've returned my car to the dealer 2 additional times for brake lights and turn signals not working properly. since i've purchased my car, i've had fuses replaced, fuse links installed to 5 circuit branches, drivers side window motor replaced, hvac cable and seal replaced, converter seal replaced, sockets replaced, and bulbs replaced; and all in less than a year of owning the car. in this last time, the dealer has replaced bulbs, replaced sockets, and packed sockets with special grease. i've had to drive a defective car for over a year now. my fear of having an accident because my lights fail to work properly. *ak | |||
| 06/10/2004 | 10 | 12/10/2003 | |
| This letter was sent to the chevrolet corporation but i still have not had sufficient help in correcting the problem. i seem to get more excuses and proper procedures quotes; opposed to adequate help on this dangerous problem with my brake and signal lights. this has been on going since the date of purchase. *ak vehicle : 2003 cavalier vin : 1g1jc12fx37257061 mileage : 24000 dealer : foxs security comments : i have been trying to find a resolution to the ongoing problem with my vehicles turn and break lights. i purchased my car brand new with zero mileage. i have been back and fourth to the dealership to have my lights repaired faithfully every other month. this problem is serious because in most cases; i dont realize my lights are out until im on the belt-way traveling 60 miles an hour or more when it occurs to me my signals are not working or another driver gestures my lights are out again. this problem is extremely dangerous and im in total distress because the dealership cant or wont resolve the problem. i have been going back and fourth every 3 to 4 weeks for the same problem. the lights on the left side will go out and the right side will follow a week later or vice versa. i didnt purchase a new vehicle to constantly use hand signals or endanger my families lives daily; this is totally unacceptable and i want someone to resolve this problem immediately. | |||
| 03/30/2004 | 6000 | 2 | 03/22/2003 |
| The left and right turn signals/brake lights in car stopped working. i took the car to the dealership where it was repaired. they told me there was a short in the wiring in the rear of the car. the right turn signal/brake light stopped working again about 1 week after the repairs. *ak | |||
| 08/28/2003 | 12125 | 5 | |
| Owner says that the vehicle is experiencing electrical problems. the headlights, tail lights, and the directional signals are malfunctioning. owner took the vehicle to the dealer who has replaced the brake and headlight bulbs on five occassions. however, the problem still occurs. provide further details. *la | |||
| 05/28/2004 | 4 | ||
| I purchased a 2003 chevrolet cavalier from fred diehl motors of philsipburg, pa (814-342-3223). i am having problems with the rear brake lights and now all rear lighting. fist the car was serviced at valley tires who replaced the bulb lamps. *ak second, fred diehls replaced the left side socket and tightened the right bulb. the third time, i was stopped by local police for no brake lights. fred diehls replaced both the sockets and bulbs because of a short in the system. i called general motors woth a complaint (customer relationship manager alvin johnson 1-866-942-4368 ext. 47590). mr. johnson sent me a letter april 20 stating they would make the repairs up to 75,000 miles. on may 28, 2004, i was involved in an accident. there were no injuries, but the vehicle was damaged. i signaled and applied my brakes to make a left turn. a flat bed truck behind me started to pass me as i proceeded to turn and struck the driver's side. the man told state police there were no lights, but he was fined anyway for passing in a no passing zone. on june 1 and 2 i called gm and mr. johnson returned my call and took the accident report. on june 3, darrin tranuse of gm (1-800-231-1841 ext 58932) called me and told me to take the vehicel to the nearest chevy dealer. my brother-in-law followed me to fred diehls because i had no rear lights. they checked the car and found no lights also. they called gm and were given special orders to allow no one around the vehicle until they could look at it. i have twice called mr. tranuse but never received a return call. the had the vehicel serviced three times and the fourth time resulted in an accident. right now, i'm afraid to drive it. | |||
| 04/30/2004 | 13900 | 5 | 01/25/2003 |
| I have been having a problem with my 2003 chevrolet cavalier. the rear brake/signal lights keep burning out due to bad sockets and bulbs. combined, i have had to replace five (5) light bulbs (three (3) on the right and two (2) on the left). the first time was april or may 2003 on the right side, when i was still in pittsburgh. the second time was in september or october 2003, also on the right side, but this time was in port orange, fl, where i found out about the socket problem. the third time was two weeks following the second incident, this time on the left side, but the dealership had the sockets on back order. the fourth time was in january 2004, again on the left side, this time the dealership replaced the socket. the fifth time was april 30, 2004, again on the right side, after the socket was replaced.*ak | |||
| 01/31/2004 | 1 | ||
| I am a gm technician. gm is having a huge problem with j body cars with new body style. (caviler, sunfire year 2001-current) the problem is with poor terminal contact with the rear bulbs due to defective bulb sockets. the result is loss of rear turn signals and brake lamps on one or often both sides. this problem affects cars often with less then 1000 miles. it is a huge problem and our shop must fix 8 cars a week on average for this problem and we are not a large gm shop. not having rear turn signals or brake lamps is serious for risk of rear-end collisions.*ak | |||
| 03/10/2004 | 9500 | 2 | 05/01/2003 |
| Brake light/turn signal bulbs have burned out 4 times(left 2 times, right 2 times) in the last 2 months.*ak | |||
| 11/19/2003 | 15 | 6 | |
| While driving at any speed heater did not work. vehicle was taken to the dealer, and heater was replaced. also, on two different occasions dealer replaced wiring harness and connection wires. on another occasion entire brake light assembly was replaced along with the sockets. in all, vehicle had been to the dealer six times in seven months.*ak | |||
| 02/22/2004 | 2 | 08/23/2003 | |
| 2003 chevrolet cavalier purchased new august 23, 2003 bill heard chevrolet,columbus ga. brake light have burned out twice since that date. once in november 2003 and again in february 2004.*ak | |||
| 09/01/2003 | 6500 | 2 | 04/09/2003 |
| 2003 chevrolet cavalier only 6 months old and already both of the back turn signals/brake light bulbs have burnt out. *ak | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS | |||
| 08/28/2003 | 12125 | 5 | |
| Owner says that the vehicle is experiencing electrical problems. the headlights, tail lights, and the directional signals are malfunctioning. owner took the vehicle to the dealer who has replaced the brake and headlight bulbs on five occassions. however, the problem still occurs. provide further details. *la | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HEADLIGHTS | |||
| 02/11/2008 | 1 | 02/09/2005 | |
| Headlamps have a plastic cover that has fogged reducing visibility. replacement parts are on backorder 1,500 are on order to date, 2-11-2008. *tr | |||
| 03/04/2005 | 22000 | 3 | |
| When slowing down at any time headlights dim very low, almost not being able to see them. as a result, driver's visibility is impaired. *ak | |||
| 11/01/2003 | 100 | 1000 | 07/05/2003 |
| Headlights are going out completely on 2003 chevrolet cavalier. ok, whom, has what legislator, in, whom's back pocket? there was a recall by chevrolet in november, of 2004- i am betting completely voluntary, of course. this recall, was, for taillights and lightbulb grease. right, somebody going to get killed in those vehicles, if the headlight problems are not corrected. here is a hint, read thier tsb regarding the headlights dimming problem. what a load that is. i will tell you why, i think they put that tsb out. it was just simply to cover thier own you know what. i wonder how many fires, or deaths have occured due to the light hearted approach gm has towards the lighting problems on the 2003 models? don't you love huberous. have you gone to your dealer about a safety issue lately. oh, check out the brake rotors there is stress and heat fractures at less than thirty thousand miles. come on! are we waiting for 1000 wheels to catch on fire, or just my pregnant wife loosing control due the shimmy. ah heck, i'll just go buy a an old pinto and have real expensive lawn ornament fully insured of course, for the next three long years. did i mention the stereo face burning ones fingers, but the dealer says, that was ok too. forget the kickbacks and do your jobs. remember the taxpayer and public servent, not corporation and public servent. sleep well, i am glad someone can. i got go change some diapers now. yeh, three kids; none of them ride in that death trap.*ak | |||
| 08/28/2003 | 12125 | 5 | |
| Owner says that the vehicle is experiencing electrical problems. the headlights, tail lights, and the directional signals are malfunctioning. owner took the vehicle to the dealer who has replaced the brake and headlight bulbs on five occassions. however, the problem still occurs. provide further details. *la | |||
| 03/24/2004 | 6500 | 7 | 06/18/2003 |
| When applying the brakes at night, the headlights and dash lights dim to a softer shade of light. i have also changed the rear single lights in my car three times in the past 6 months. this car has a bad brake problem. the front of the car shakes very bad when you apply the brakes while exiting a highway. city driving is not as bad, but when the brakes get warmed up they pulsate when i come to a stop. at the end of the day, i pull my car into my driveway and the first thing i smell when i get out is a burning smell from the back brakes. i called the fucillo chevy service department in december 2003. i talked to a serviceman about my brake problem. he told me that my pulsating brakes is the abs system working in the snow. now the roads are dry and my brakes are still pulsating. i could not find anything in my original paperwork on my car showing that it has the abs system. now my brakes are shot. the car had only 6500 hundred miles on it when i first called in december of 2003. in june of 2003, i bought this car and test drove it. the car seemed to be a good car, except for the noise that i heard coming from the front left tire area. it sounded like a rubber band when it snaps. i brought it up to my salesmen rocky from the chevy department. he told me that it's a new car. now when the front tires are turned to the right, it makes a crunching noise. when i drive over any bump at any speed, it feels like there are no shocks or struts on this car and makes a bad clunking sound. *nm | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HEADLIGHTS - SWITCH | |||
| 04/14/2004 | |||
| While driving at night with headlights on the head light cut off without prior warning, leaving consumer between four to six seconds without a vision of the road. dealer was contacted. *ak | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TAIL LIGHTS | |||
| 12/03/2002 | 19 | 12/03/2002 | |
| Problem started same week i purchase vehicle brand new. gmc would not exchange vehicle, they just kept repairing it as it broke down. i feel very unsafe in this vehicle, they did not care. clutch was rubbing against main line, failed twice. rear lights burned out 3 times, springs on seats popped out 3 times, gas pump went out once, heater/ac went out twice, locks would not open, 3 times, pain chipped off bumper, once. rear seat clips snapped, once. headlights, water leaked in. twice i had a head on collision in june/2007...air bag did not deploy. *jb | |||
| 08/01/2005 | 2 | ||
| 2003 chevrolet cavalier rear taillight and turn signal assembly failed.***no answer required***. *mr the consumer requested compensation the ongoing problems with her vehicle. *sc | |||
| 06/01/2003 | 2 | ||
| I own a new 2003 chevy cavalier with several problems. had to replaced 2 spacers, a strut mount, several steering parts and part of the rear light. *bf the consumer stated that she can slightly rock the steering wheel from side to side. the consumer asked if an occasional popping in the steering is normal in her vehicle after testing four of the same models. *tc | |||
| 06/01/2004 | 36000 | 4 | 05/30/2003 |
| I have researched the information regarding gm recall 04083, regarding the 2003 chevrolet cavalier having faulty taillights. my 2003 chevrolet cavalier has the same exact problems described in this recall. i have contacted gm and have finally been told that my vehicle's vin: 1g1jf12f937131104 is not involved in the recall. is there any thing that i can do short of paying for the repair parts myself?*ak | |||
| 01/01/1901 | 1 | ||
| Post arbitration evidence in response to new documents provided request repurchase of 2003 chevrolet cavalier.*mr the consumer went through arbitration because of continuing rear light problems. *nm | |||
| 4 | |||
| The tail light has blown several times causing the turn signal to blink erratic. please provide any additional information. *nm | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TURN SIGNAL | |||
| 07/20/2009 | 77000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet cavalier . the left tail light turn signal was inoperable. the bulb had not blown therefore she speculated that there was an electrical failure. the vehicle was previously repaired according to recall campaign id number 04v524000 (exterior lighting:turn signal), therefore she was ineligible for a free remedy. no further repairs had been made to remedy the failure. the current and failure mileages were under 77,000. the vehicle identification number was unavailable. | |||
| 03/08/2005 | |||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet cavalier. while driving approximately 20 mph, the turn signal failed to activate after several attempts. the failure occurred intermittently and the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for inspection. the technician discovered that the vehicle was previously repaired according to nhtsa campaign id number 04v524000 (exterior lighting:turn signal); however, the remedy was insufficient. the turn signal module was replaced, but the failure recurred three weeks later. the vehicle has not been repaired again. the failure mileage was unknown and current mileage was 100,000. | |||
| 06/14/2008 | 62011 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet cavalier. the contact's vehicle was repaired according to nhtsa campaign id number 04v524000 (exterior lighting:turn signal) in 2006. two years later, while driving at an unknown speed, she noticed that the passenger side brake lamp and turn signal were inoperative. she repeatedly replaced the brake light bulb, but it continued to fail. the manufacturer stated that because her vehicle was previously repaired under recall, she would be responsible for the repair costs. the contact is in the process of taking the vehicle to an authorized dealer for a diagnosis and repair. the failure and current mileages were 62,011. | |||
| 05/15/2006 | 44000 | 1 | |
| Dt*: the contact stated though the recall work on nhtsa recall # 04v524000 was performed on two occasions, the rear turn signals on the vehicle continued to fail. the service dealer manager was contacted, who informed the contact that there would be a 100 dollar deductible charged to diagnose the problem. the manufacturer was contacted, who informed the contact that they had completed the recall agreement and were under no further obligation to offer assistance. | |||
| 08/01/2005 | 2 | ||
| 2003 chevrolet cavalier rear taillight and turn signal assembly failed.***no answer required***. *mr the consumer requested compensation the ongoing problems with her vehicle. *sc | |||
| 01/31/2005 | 34797 | 2 | |
| On january 28th 2005, i took my 2003 chevy cavalier to my gm dealership for service on a recall issued by you and gm, recall #04083. this recall is one of the most blatent disreguard for human life. you gave chevy options! options, that shouldn | |||
| 07/21/2003 | 5407 | 8 | 01/20/2003 |
| 2003 chevrolet cavalier experienced problems with brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights.***no answer required***. *mr the brake lights and tail lights shorted out many times, the tail light socket was also replaced. the consumer received a recall letter #04v524000. the consumer took the vehicle to have the service performed, however that did not seem to remedy the problem. the vehicle has been in the shop on numerous occasions regarding this problem, the consumer did not believe her vehicle was satisfactorily repaired. the cd would not eject. the right side power window made a noise when it was rolled down. *jb | |||
| 03/01/2005 | 1666 | 24 | 07/17/2003 |
| Chevrolet cavalier z 2003, multiple failures. *bf the defroster would not clear the windows, the heater did not work, the air bag light illuminated because there was a split in the center of the steering wheel. when the consumer made a right turn a noise was heard. the left rear turn signal bulb was replaced, the right rear brake light bulb. there was a noise coming from the front of the vehicle, the dealer lubed the front sway bar bushing. the tires were over inflated, so the vehicle would sway when going over bumps, the blower motor, and heater control was replaced. the abs lamp illuminated. the vehicle needed brake pads. there was mold on the drivers front door. the ac compressor was replaced. the window went down extremely slow, the dealer lubed the window track and regulator. the fog light bulb was inoperative, the door latch was inoperative. *jb | |||
| 08/12/2003 | 8 | 04/01/2003 | |
| Chevrolet cavalier 2003, problem exist with the passenger side blinker/brake light continues to operate incorrectly. *bf the starter cylinder was replaced. *jb the dealer replaced the brake light bulb and blinker bulb on several occasions. | |||
| 01/17/2004 | 5 | 09/14/2003 | |
| 04 v 524 000/rear light bulb socket assembles: the consumer stated, the recall remedy was performed three times on the left rear tail lights socket and two times on the right tail lights socket and the bulbs continued to fail. the dealer was still unable to locate the problem. *jb | |||
| 12/30/2004 | 5 | 07/21/2004 | |
| Rear turn signal on 2003 failed for 5th time in 5 months. problem is described in nhtsa campaign 04v524000. dealer and gm customer service at 1-800-222-1020 says my vin does not apply to this recall campaign. my vin is 1g1jc52f237271477.*ak | |||
| 06/01/2004 | 36000 | 4 | 05/30/2003 |
| I have researched the information regarding gm recall 04083, regarding the 2003 chevrolet cavalier having faulty taillights. my 2003 chevrolet cavalier has the same exact problems described in this recall. i have contacted gm and have finally been told that my vehicle's vin: 1g1jf12f937131104 is not involved in the recall. is there any thing that i can do short of paying for the repair parts myself?*ak | |||
| 11/22/2004 | 1 | ||
| Right rear brake light and turn signal turned on intermittently which caused cruise control to work sporadically.*ak | |||
| 09/23/2003 | 5600 | 2 | |
| On 2 separate occasions the turn signal went out while turing, almost causing a rear end collision. this occured due to the defect as described in recall 04v524000 concerning rear light bulb socket assembly. however, this vehicle wa snot included in the recall due to vin. *ak | |||
| 10/17/2003 | 1 | ||
| The left and right signal and markers lights failed due to corroded sockets . *nm *sc | |||
| 10/07/2004 | 12484 | 5 | 02/08/2003 |
| While turning on the turn signals the turn they failed to come on. consumer took vehicle to the dealer for inspection, and the mechanic replaced the bulb and socket. the consumer informed the mechanic that this problem occurred more than once and had not been resolved. *ak the right and left rear turn signal failed, there was shaking in the dash when the blower was on due to the a/c accumulator. *sc | |||
| 09/21/2004 | 22000 | 3 | 02/10/2003 |
| One day the left rear blinker light stopped working. we replaced the bulb and one month later the blinker went out again. the blinker blinks really fast to notify you that the bulb is out. a week later, the blinker does not work and the bulb is fine.*ak | |||
| 02/01/2004 | 10602 | 1 | |
| While driving. the rear right and left signal lights went out. the flash will rapidly blink indicating which side is not working. the consumer took the vehicle to the dealer. problem has not been resolved. please provide any further information. *jb | |||
| 08/20/2004 | 32000 | 2 | |
| The signal indicator and brake lights failed. *ak | |||
| 08/13/2004 | 8 | ||
| Turn signals failed to stay on . turn signal could turn itself on/off. turn signal system was replaced seven time by dealership. but problem was not solved. *ak | |||
| 06/30/2004 | 7000 | 3 | 08/23/2003 |
| Consumer was concerned with replacing the turn signal light bulbs on the left side 3 times within 9 months. dealer and the manufacturer were not notified . *ak | |||
| 06/10/2004 | 10 | 12/10/2003 | |
| This letter was sent to the chevrolet corporation but i still have not had sufficient help in correcting the problem. i seem to get more excuses and proper procedures quotes; opposed to adequate help on this dangerous problem with my brake and signal lights. this has been on going since the date of purchase. *ak vehicle : 2003 cavalier vin : 1g1jc12fx37257061 mileage : 24000 dealer : foxs security comments : i have been trying to find a resolution to the ongoing problem with my vehicles turn and break lights. i purchased my car brand new with zero mileage. i have been back and fourth to the dealership to have my lights repaired faithfully every other month. this problem is serious because in most cases; i dont realize my lights are out until im on the belt-way traveling 60 miles an hour or more when it occurs to me my signals are not working or another driver gestures my lights are out again. this problem is extremely dangerous and im in total distress because the dealership cant or wont resolve the problem. i have been going back and fourth every 3 to 4 weeks for the same problem. the lights on the left side will go out and the right side will follow a week later or vice versa. i didnt purchase a new vehicle to constantly use hand signals or endanger my families lives daily; this is totally unacceptable and i want someone to resolve this problem immediately. | |||
| 05/28/2004 | 4 | ||
| I purchased a 2003 chevrolet cavalier from fred diehl motors of philsipburg, pa (814-342-3223). i am having problems with the rear brake lights and now all rear lighting. fist the car was serviced at valley tires who replaced the bulb lamps. *ak second, fred diehls replaced the left side socket and tightened the right bulb. the third time, i was stopped by local police for no brake lights. fred diehls replaced both the sockets and bulbs because of a short in the system. i called general motors woth a complaint (customer relationship manager alvin johnson 1-866-942-4368 ext. 47590). mr. johnson sent me a letter april 20 stating they would make the repairs up to 75,000 miles. on may 28, 2004, i was involved in an accident. there were no injuries, but the vehicle was damaged. i signaled and applied my brakes to make a left turn. a flat bed truck behind me started to pass me as i proceeded to turn and struck the driver's side. the man told state police there were no lights, but he was fined anyway for passing in a no passing zone. on june 1 and 2 i called gm and mr. johnson returned my call and took the accident report. on june 3, darrin tranuse of gm (1-800-231-1841 ext 58932) called me and told me to take the vehicel to the nearest chevy dealer. my brother-in-law followed me to fred diehls because i had no rear lights. they checked the car and found no lights also. they called gm and were given special orders to allow no one around the vehicle until they could look at it. i have twice called mr. tranuse but never received a return call. the had the vehicel serviced three times and the fourth time resulted in an accident. right now, i'm afraid to drive it. | |||
| 04/01/2003 | 7 | 01/26/2003 | |
| I've owned my 2003 cavalier for 1 yr. 3 months. i'm very irritated with having to go to the dealership every other month for the same problem. i've had my car in 7 times to get the taillight fixed. the first 2 times the light blew out, my radio completely wiped out my preset stations. i also had my car in 2 months after i bought it because there was a bad snow and as i was driving 5 mph i bumped over a pot hole which ended up cracking my spring and strut on the front pass. side. i had to pay out of pocket because the repair was $100 less than my deductible. and i was in the service dept. a week before complaining of a squeak coming from my front tire that they put off as the wheel cover.coincidence?there was no reason that the spring and strut should have cracked like that! i've also, just for the record, asked them twice to check my brakes because as i come to a stop they begin to pulsate. the service dept. told me i needed new brakes.i've only had my car for 1 year, 24,000 mostly highway miles!!! they want $250.00 to fix my brakes and they should still be under warranty. even midas gurantees their brakes w/ a lifetime warranty. you'd think the manufacturer would for an original owner.it's only 2 pads for goodness sake! if i knew how, i'd do it myself. a service tech told me that gm is well aware of these safety hazards that other gm customers like myself are experiencing, yet they aren't doing a recall. something needs to be done before something bad happens to someone while in their vehicle. not doing anything is bad business!! customers should be first priority. as a manufacturer, your responsibility is toward your customer if something you sell or manufacture is defective!!!*ak | |||
| 01/31/2004 | 1 | ||
| I am a gm technician. gm is having a huge problem with j body cars with new body style. (caviler, sunfire year 2001-current) the problem is with poor terminal contact with the rear bulbs due to defective bulb sockets. the result is loss of rear turn signals and brake lamps on one or often both sides. this problem affects cars often with less then 1000 miles. it is a huge problem and our shop must fix 8 cars a week on average for this problem and we are not a large gm shop. not having rear turn signals or brake lamps is serious for risk of rear-end collisions.*ak | |||
| 03/10/2004 | 9500 | 2 | 05/01/2003 |
| Brake light/turn signal bulbs have burned out 4 times(left 2 times, right 2 times) in the last 2 months.*ak | |||
| 02/23/2004 | 20 | 03/08/2003 | |
| I bought the car brand new arround 04/2003 chevrolet cavalier 2003 since then i reported several times back to the dealer ship with the following problems:drivetrain - clunk noise during low speed turns a/c - difficult mode/temperature setting operation . steering - momentary loss of power assist. steering - rattle/knock when turning wheels - front/rear wheel squeaking noise ---all those complaints are never been taken care off - they allways had some low excuses for me - like the wheater/rain/dirt on the wheels (i live in the city ...not on a dirt road..) anyway the only complaint they taken serious is that i brought in the car now for the 3rd time to repair the right signal light - last time just today! i reported again all the other problems, with the sucess that they at least orderd now a new part for the a/c, everything else is again been played down. honestly, i'm getting tired of having so much trouble with a new car. bringing it to the dealership always cost me a nearly a whole day of missing work. i would like to know if there is any way to fix all tjose problems for once and all or does a customer from chevrolet just has to suffer and put up with such a poor quality?!*ak | |||
| 04/01/2003 | 3000 | 3 | 01/25/2003 |
| The right turn signal light burned out 3 times within this year. took vehicle to dealer, and the dealer indicated that the sockets were corroded. *ak *sc | |||
| 11/19/2003 | 45000 | 1 | |
| The rear turn signal fails intermittently. has taken vehicle to dealership. the mechanic states that the light burns through the socket which causes failure. *ph | |||
| 09/01/2003 | 6500 | 2 | 04/09/2003 |
| 2003 chevrolet cavalier only 6 months old and already both of the back turn signals/brake light bulbs have burnt out. *ak | |||
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING - TURN SIGNAL - FLASHER UNIT | |||
| 12/01/2003 | 21000 | 7 | 06/23/2003 |
| There are numerous things, and the delaership has convinced gm, because i wrote gm about the problems with this, that i am making this stuff up to get an suv. first the radio wasn't working, they put the cable back on said it was loose, its still not sounding like a radio should. next was the popping in the front end, dealership turned rotors, under warranty back brakes squealed real loud they said it was dust i had to pay for that. back brakes still squeal, front end still pops like a bad cv joint. trunk wouldn't shut had to keep slamming it. took it back they greased it worked for awhile starting to get hard to shut sometimes. brake lights and back lights and cruise control quit working . took it to dealership at least 5 or 6 times till they finally replaced it how long it will last i don't know. front sun visor popped when it hung up in rear view mirror real floppy can't use it no more dealer said they ordered it in december. still waiting not fixed. real bad odor of gas in car when tank is half full, no explanation as to why. seat belt makes a funny noise when you are wearing it, pins you back against seat real hard. no explanation for that. have to stop and jerk on it to loosen it like a seat belt should work. dealer says i am imagining this stuff because i do not want car, bought it new still paying for it. been trying to get rid of it they have everyone convinced i am a psycho woman wanting an suv and thats why i am complaining that is all false. just plain hate a car i am paying for.*ak | |||
| 08/25/2004 | 45000 | 1 | 03/01/2003 |
| When in use smoke came out from the rear driver's side turn signal socket. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak left rear brake light will not light tried new bulb but still will not light. the consumer was told she needed a new socket. *tc | |||
| 03/30/2004 | 6000 | 2 | 03/22/2003 |
| The left and right turn signals/brake lights in car stopped working. i took the car to the dealership where it was repaired. they told me there was a short in the wiring in the rear of the car. the right turn signal/brake light stopped working again about 1 week after the repairs. *ak | |||