NHTSA recall 96V-045 (96V045000)

seat belts recall reported March 5, 1996 - about 49,000 vehicles affected.

NHTSA campaign number: 96V045000
Also written as: 96V-045
Reported: March 5, 1996
Vehicles affected: ~49,000
Component: seat belts

What is being recalled

THE RIVETS HOLDING THE REAR OUTBOARD BELT D-RINGS WERE NOT HEAT TREATED PROPERLY CAUSING THE HEADS OF THE RIVETS TO FRACTURE UNDER LOAD AND FAIL TO HOLD THE D-RINGS TO THE STRAPS. THIS DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES."

Why it is dangerous

CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THIS CONDITION CAN REDUCE THE RESTRAINING CAPABILITIES OF THE SAFETY BELT IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT.

The fix (free at any franchised dealer)

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT PLATE ON THE REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES INVOLVED IN THIS CAMPAIGN.

Recall repairs are always free, regardless of vehicle age or where you bought the car. Quote the campaign number 96V-045 when calling a dealer.

Affected 2 models

Ford Crown Victoria - 1995

Mercury Grand Marquis - 1995

Each year links to that car's full history: every recall, owner complaints and common problems.

Is YOUR car included? A campaign rarely covers every single vehicle of a model year. Check your exact car by its 17-character VIN with the free VIN decoder and recall check.

Source: NHTSA recall campaign data (public domain), refreshed weekly. See also the latest recall campaigns.