Recall 04V-129: 2002–2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT, 2002–2004 Chevrolet Avalanche and 4 more
GENERAL MOTORS CORP. recall for structure, reported to NHTSA on Mar 17, 2004, covering about 3,662,211 vehicles.
The problem
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (Horizontal) position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. If both cables fractured, the tailgate would suddenly drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper.
The risk
Anyone sitting or standing on the horizontal surface of the tailgate when both cables fractured could be injured by falling from the tailgate. On vehicles that have had the bumper removed, the tailgate may drop even lower. Additionally, if there is cargo on the tailgate the cargo may fall off if the support cables fracture.
The fix
Dealers will replace the cables. Interim owner notification began on april 7, 20004. The recall began on september 24, 2004, when replacement parts were available, and will continue through october 29, 2004. Owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463, or visit www.mygmlink.com, and enter your vehicle identification number.
Notes
Gm recall no. 04007.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Recall details
| Manufacturer | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. |
|---|---|
| Component | Structure › Body › Tailgate › Hinge and Attachments |
| Recall started by | NHTSA (Office of Defects Investigation) |
| NHTSA campaign number | 04V129000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Cadillac Escalade EXT | 2002, 2003, 2004 | All years |
| Chevrolet Avalanche | 2002, 2003, 2004 | All years |
| Chevrolet Kodiak | 2003, 2004 | All years |
| Chevrolet Silverado | 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 | All years |
| GMC Sierra | 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 | All years |
| GMC Topkick | 2003, 2004 | All years |
Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 04V-129?
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (Horizontal) position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. If both cables fractured, the tailgate would suddenly drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper.
How is recall 04V-129 fixed?
Dealers will replace the cables. Interim owner notification began on april 7, 20004. The recall began on september 24, 2004, when replacement parts were available, and will continue through october 29, 2004. Owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463, or visit www.mygmlink.com, and enter your vehicle identification number.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.